Motivation Definition:
The reason or reasons to act in a particular way. It is what makes us do things and carry out tasks for the organization.
However, motivation is often used as an excuse, a lack of motivation for not doing anything. This is why in an organization discipline needs to be used, to inspire the fact that motivation isn’t always needed, but discipline to get the job done is.
Contents
What is Motivation?
Motivation is that which energizes, directs and sustains behaviour
(Steers & Porter 1979)
Motivation is important within organizations because managers need to know how to motivate their staff, so that they work harder, enjoy work life more and in turn generate more profit for the company. Its important to know; how people are motivated, why people are motivated and also how the manager themselves are motivated, because if they aren’t then it is very unlikely that the rest of the team will be.
How to Motivate Employees
Although everyone is motivated differently, as they require different things to make them happy and content, there are a set of aspects which will normally work on most people.
- Money
- Health Care
- Flextime
These are just a few, if we dive more into the theories though we can see a lot more;
Theories of Motivation
- Expectancy Theory: Motivation
- Fundamental Attribution Error
- Goal-setting Theory: Motivation
- Herzberg’s Two Factor Theory: Motivation
- Maslows Hierarchy of Needs: Motivation
Motivational Quotes
In many situations motivational quotes are used to try and energise employees. A sample of these are shown below;
Motivation will almost always beat mere talent.
– Norman Ralph Augustine
Our greatest weakness lies in giving up. The most certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time.
– Thomas A. Edison
The secret of getting ahead is getting started.
– Mark Twain
Arnold Schwarzenegger – “Who do YOU want to be in life?”
One of my favorite motivational videos, from the great Arnie!
Key Learning Points
- How Would You Define Motivation?
- Why is Discipline Important?
- How Would You Motivate an Employee?
