Elements of Motivation

A common desire is to feel motivated in life, particularly in your career. When we lack motivation, we sometimes struggle to understand why. We know that financial rewards can only go so far, so what else can help us jump out of bed in the morning?

According to Daniel Pink, our source of motivation is primarily intrinsic and is composed of three elements:

  1. Autonomy – Our desire to be self-directed.
  2. Mastery – Our urge to develop better skills.
  3. Purpose – Our desire to do things that have meaning.

If you are feeling unmotivated in a particular pursuit, try defining this lack of motivation in the context of these three elements. Doing so will help you understand what you feel is missing, and whether the intrinsic value can be achieved. If achieving this value isn’t possible, then seek other pursuits with these three elements in mind.


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