MOTIVES AND MOTIVATION FUEL EACH OTHER!
Both perspectives hold some truth! It’s more of a cyclical relationship than a one-way street. Here’s how they work together:
Motives as the Spark:
- Motives are the underlying desires, needs, or goals that drive us. They answer the “why” behind our actions. For example, wanting to get in shape (motive) might fuel your desire to exercise.
Motivation as the Fuel:
- Motivation is the internal feeling that activates, directs, and sustains your behavior. It’s the “get up and go” that propels you towards your motives. Think of it as the fuel that your car (your actions) needs to reach its destination (your motives).
The Cycle in Action:
- Start with a Motive: A strong motive ignites the initial spark of motivation. The stronger the motive, the more likely you are to feel motivated.
- Motivation Fuels Action: Your desire to achieve your motive (getting in shape) motivates you to take action (go for a run).
- Action Creates Momentum: Taking action can further strengthen your motivation. Seeing progress (running farther each day) reinforces your desire to continue and reach your goal.
- Back to Motives: Sometimes, taking action can also help you discover or solidify your motives. Enjoying your run might make you realize you not only want to get in shape, but you also find running fun (intrinsic motivation).
It’s Not Always Linear:
- Motivation Can Spark Motives: Sometimes, being motivated by something (a fun new workout class) can lead you to discover a new motive (enjoying exercise).
- External Factors Play a Role: Rewards, deadlines, or social pressure can also influence motivation, even if the motive itself isn’t strong.
The Key Takeaway:
Whether motives come first or motivation, they reinforce each other in a cycle. Strong motives can create lasting motivation, and taking action can strengthen both motives and motivation.