Today we bring our series on motivation and what it really is and isn’t to a close. We have discussed what motivation is, how it operates, where we get our definitions of motivation from, and the different types of motivation. Today, we will discuss just how we move from external to more internalized regulation.
Deci and Ryan posited in their texts on self determination theory that humans have three psychological needs in order for them to initiate behaviors and move along the motivation continuum. These three needs are competence, autonomy, and relatedness.
Autonomy is needed as it has been shown that as people become more accustomed to a task, external motivators become less effective. We get bored. The less autonomy we have in a task the less we take ownership of it and the behaviors that will further it. However, situations in which we gain autonomy in a task can work to further motivate and drive us toward completion.
Competence is just becoming better at a task or situation. When people receive positive feedback for a job it increases intrinsic motivators and decreases the need for external ones. We all like to be good at stuff and doing a job well helps us to achieve not for the external rewards but rather for the satisfaction it brings internally.
Relatedness is simply the desire to be emotionally connected with others. We are social creatures and the craving for that stability is inherent. Feeling connected with others in a task or situation will help for us to internalize the reasons for adhering and reduce the chances of quitting. It’s part of the success of things like Crossfit; relatedness as informed by community.
So if we take these three human needs and apply them to our daily lives and goals we have a much better chance of success. Take ownership of your goals and feel like you are in control of your destiny. Rack up small wins and work towards mastery. Find a community of likeminded humans who share your goals and can support your decisions.
Last, remember that nothing exists in isolation and nothing is static. We crave growth and at times we will move from one side of this continuum to another. Focus on today, on what you can do in the moment, and over time you will work towards mastery. It won’t be sexy but it will be worth it.
