Introduction
Motivation is a psychological factor that keeps you focused on your goals and inspires you to take action to achieve them. However, there are different types of motivation and ways of being motivated that factor into how we pursue success. Understanding the different types of motivation can help you find what best drives you. Here are eight different types of motivators that will help you reach your goals.
1. Intrinsic Motivation
Intrinsic motivation comes from within you – you do it for yourself because it satisfies you personally in someway – joy, satisfaction, personal fulfillment or success. For example, learning a new skill because you enjoy the challenge and not because you will earn something or receive an external reward.
2. Extrinsic Motivation
Extrinsic motivation is driven by an external reward – for example, money, recognition, praise, or reward. This can be pursuing a promotion or bonus by working harder & producing better work at work.
3. Achievement Motivation
Achievement motivation is focusing on success and achieving set goals. Those with high achievement motivation will set difficult goals and strive to reach them and/or improve upon them.
4. Power Motivation
Power motivation is driven by influencing, leading, or having control over others. Leaders, entrepreneurs, and politicians often exhibit this type of motivation to create change and provide an impact on others.
5. Affiliation Motivation.
This type of motivation revolves around togetherness and creating connections with others. People who are affiliation-motivated enjoy working in a team with others and enjoy the approval and recognition from others.
6. Fear-Based Motivation.
Fear-based motivation encourages individuals to do something because of what they will potentially lose, such as unemployment, sickness, or failure. While fear-based motivation can be effective in the short term, tempering it with positive motivation is preferable.
7. Incentive Motivation.
Incentive motivation is based on material rewards. When a person knows there is a reward in place, whether it is a bonus for achieving sales goals, a trophy to win for achievements, a vacation for a job well done, or something else, it motivates the individual to focus and work toward their goal.
8. Growth Motivation.
Growth motivation refers to the desire to grow and advance personally. People who have growth motivation are always learning, expanding their skill set, and trying to grow in their personal and professional life.
Conclusion
Understanding and identifying the various types of motivation that drive you will assist you in leveraging motivation to achieve your goals. Whether it is intrinsic enjoyment, external incentives, or growth motivation, the correct motivation will assist you in remaining dedicated to and accomplishing your objectives.
