Understanding the Truth About Motivation

Have you ever wondered why some people seem to achieve better results and frequently hit their goals while you struggle to get half of your to-do list done? The resolutions you decided on in January, or the plans you committed to at your last team meeting, which sounded like a great idea at the time, never make it to the finish line. Why do some people seem like they can hyper-focus to accomplish more, better and faster than others? How do they stay motivated all the time? Perhaps you are left wondering, “What am I doing wrong, and why do I keep failing?” Or maybe it’s not you personally, but someone on your team or in your family who cannot stay committed to finishing an assignment or sticking with a plan, and you wonder what you can do to help motivate them.

Motivation is often seen as the fuel that drives our ambitions, projects and daily tasks. We view it as that internal energy that keeps us working towards achieving our dreams — and if we could just tap into it at will, our lives would be easier. However, there are many misconceptions about what motivation is, how it works and how we can harness it effectively. Let's dive into some common myths about motivation and uncover the truths that can empower us as professionals.

The Myth of Universal Motivation

One prevalent misconception is the belief that everyone is motivated by the same things. This simplification does not account for unique human desires, experiences and ambitions. The truth is far more nuanced: Everyone has individual motivators. Some may be driven by financial rewards, others by recognition, and yet others by the intrinsic satisfaction of a job well done. If we are responsible for or care about someone, it's up to us to learn and understand what the different motivators are for them. (And this applies to learning our own, as well!) By doing so, we can create environments where everyone's motivations are acknowledged and nurtured.

Building Motivation Over Time

Another common myth suggests that motivation is a fixed trait — you either have it or you don't. This couldn't be further from the truth. Motivation is more akin to a muscle; it requires regular exercise and attention. Identifying your "why" is crucial, but it's just the first step. Maintaining motivation requires constant reflection on your goals and the actions needed to achieve them. It's a daily commitment to align your behaviors with your aspirations and understand that motivation will ebb and flow, so you need to develop resiliency to stay on track.

The Power to Motivate Others

There is also the belief that it's possible to motivate others. However, our argument is that motivation is an internal, personal drive. And while it's true that the core of motivation is individual, we do believe that you can play a significant role in influencing others to find motivation. Through inspiration, encouragement and support, we can help others discover their "why." It's about creating an environment that sparks motivation, offering the tools and resources needed to pursue personal and collective goals. This collaborative approach not only fosters individual growth but also strengthens team dynamics.

The Challenge of Achieving Motivation

Some argue that motivation is binary — you're either motivated to do something, or you're not. This perspective overlooks the complexities of human psychology and the challenges of goal achievement. Motivation isn't always readily available; sometimes, it requires cultivation. Setting smaller, manageable goals can help build momentum, and achieving "small wins" can propel you toward larger objectives. This incremental approach can make daunting tasks seem more achievable, keeping motivation alive even in the face of challenges.

Motivation and Action: Which Comes First?

Another myth that needs debunking is that you need motivation to take action. Waiting for motivation to strike before acting can lead to stagnation and missed opportunities. In reality, action often precedes motivation. Taking the first step can create a positive feedback loop even when you're not feeling particularly inspired. Motivation often follows as you see progress from your actions, fueling further action.

Understanding the truth about motivation is crucial for anyone looking to thrive in the professional world. By embracing the complexities of motivation, we can better navigate our paths to success. Remember, motivation is personal, dynamic and multifaceted. It requires understanding, nurturing and sometimes a nudge in the right direction. As business leaders, we have the power not only to motivate ourselves but also to inspire those around us. In doing so, we create a culture of motivation and achievement that propels us all toward our goals.

Previously seen on I95 Business Magazine.