What motivation theory is the best?

There are many different theories throughout psychology on a number of topics about the human mind and mental health.  This is especially true for the topic of motivation, and there are several theories to consider.  Maslow’s hierarchy of needs theory is one of the most well-known theories on motivation out there.  Motivational Interviewing is one of the more popular theories on motivation that is implemented today.  Those are just two examples of theories on motivation, and there are many more.

When considering what theory on motivation is best, it is important to consider the simple fact that there are so many different theories because no one theory works for every person.  You can spend a lot of time overthinking which one would be best for you, so be careful with that. Another simple reality with this is that the best theory is the one that works for you.  Of course, some theories are more popular than others, but the one that works for you at the end of the day is the best one for you. Try to really consider what tends to work for you and what does not work for you in other areas of your life.

An important key to consider when figuring out which motivation theory is the best is consistency. Whatever motivation theory you give a try, it will be important to be consistent with it.  If you are not consistent with it, you will not get a clear picture of if it is effective or not.  Whatever motivation theory you decide to try, it will likely feel uncomfortable at first because it is new.  When some people feel that uncomfortable feeling, they give up thinking it does not work for them.  It is important to see all of these factors for what they are and expect them to pop up. For example, if you are using motivational interviewing to help with motivation to battle addiction, you will likely feel uncomfortable as you start to make some changes.  That uncomfortable feeling is necessary and a part of the process rather than a sign that you should give up.