Most teachers are very interested in improving motivation in their classroom. Studies have shown that self-motivation is a key to higher productivity, higher levels of happiness, and higher satisfaction with our lives, families and jobs. Those who are self-motivated also earn more money than their peers and live longer.
The good news is that motivation is a skill which can be learned and developed.
Recent studies have indicated that there are two things that will consistently improve a person’s motivation.
The first key is that we must believe we have autonomy over our actions and surroundings. We want to feel that we are in control of our lives.
We can help others to be more internally self-motivated by giving them choices. Choices don’t have to be large, but they should be frequent. Would you like to finish the math or write your essay first? Would you like ham sandwiches or turkey? Make a goal sheet deciding the order you would you like to complete your tasks. Decide how to tackle a project. Determine which materials you should use or which space to work in.
The particular choices seem to matter less than the fact that people have choices. People are more motivated to complete difficult work or chores if they are presented as decisions rather than orders. The feeling of self-determination gets us going and encourages us to finish assignments or projects. When people feel in control, they work harder and push themselves more.
The second key to self-motivation is understand why you are doing things. The “why” is your purpose, your mission, your higher reason.
In addition to making self-directed choices, we need to see that our actions are connected to our values and goals. When students are told to do their math because the teacher says so, they do not connect the task to a higher purpose. When they do their math because they understand that it will help them to control their money or to be better, more logical thinkers which will help them be successful adults, they are connecting to purpose and values.
Likewise, when adults see no purpose in their jobs and no connection to a higher value, they become disengaged employees. The person who sees their job as a way to help others, or provide a good life for their families is more motivated than an employee who is just collecting a paycheck.
The way to connect to purpose and values is to ask “why.” Why does this matter? Why should I bother? Why should I complete this task? Why is this important?
When people don’t see a reason behind a task or project, they aren’t motivated to complete it. On the other hand, when people connect a task to a larger purpose of meaningful goals and values, they understand that they are making meaningful choices that impact things they care about. They then feel in control of their lives and motivated to move in directions that will allow them to achieve things that matter.
According to Charles Duhigg in his new book, Smarter, Faster, Better, “Self-motivation, in other words, is a choice we make because it is part of something bigger and more emotionally rewarding than the immediate task that needs doing.”
Knowing that we can increase self-motivation is a game changer. Giving people choices and helping them connect to a larger picture are two proven strategies that increase self-motivation.
What do you do to offer choices or help others connect to their values or purpose? We would love to hear your ideas.
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