Can motivation be learned?

Is motivation something that we can learn, or is it something that we naturally have?  Motivation is the want to change thoughts, desires, and behaviors.  While some people are more “naturally” motivated, motivation can be learned as well. 

Types of Motivation

There are two basic types of motivation:  intrinsic and extrinsic motivation.  Intrinsic motivation is doing an activity for the fun of doing it, for an internal reward.  This might look like a toddler who is exploring the backyard.  She is not looking to earn anything from doing this, like a piece of candy.  She is exploring the backyard for the pleasure of being there and the joy that comes with it.

External rewards drive extrinsic motivation.  These rewards may come in the form of praise, good grades, popularity, or fame.  This could look like an employee performing well on a project to get closer to a promotion.  If they did this for the satisfaction of doing their best, this would be intrinsic motivation.  See the difference?

Learning Motivation

To create motivation, you must first create positive energy to put into motivation.  Peak motivation can be achieved by fulfilling choice, connection, and competence.  With choice, connection and competence, you will have what you need to remain renewed, creative and constant in your work. 

The choice is the first step you want to take.  Ask yourself, ‘what choices do I have here?’  If this alone does not help, examine your choices again. After examining your choices again, talk to those you trust.  With their assistance, make a decision.  Follow through on this decision by using extrinsic rewards for yourself throughout the process.

Create a connection by thinking about how you are working towards the greater good of society through what you are doing.  Allow me to give you an example.  If you are completing a paper in English 101, this may seem like a far cry from doing anything productive from the world around you.  However, what is your overall goal?  Perhaps you wish to be a social worker one day.  As a social worker, you will be contributing directly to society every day!  However, if English 101 is a part of your required degree, you must get through this class.  Keep your main goal in mind!

Connection is also about connecting to others.  If you need assistance with something you are doing, don’t isolate yourself.  Look for the help that is available to you.  You are more likely to complete a task in the company of others doing something similar.

Create competence by talking through what you aim to achieve with others.  Find those who will hold you accountable.  Be accountable for other people.  When you set goals, don’t just set them for achieving milestones.  Set goals that are about increasing knowledge as well.