Self in Motivation

The basis for motivation seems to be in our perceptions of ourselves. These perceptions govern our behavior and support the concept of self-motivation. In order for people to motivate themselves, there must be meaning in what they are doing. If they do not perceive that the goal set before them will satisfy their needs, they cannot possibly motivate themselves to accomplish it. You must realize that no matter how unrealistic a perception may seem to us, it is a reality to the person who holds it. No matter how we try to debunk a perception, there is always some degree of truth and reality within it and, therefore, it is very real to that person. 

Individuals will not be motivated to work safely unless they have internalized the goals and expectations of the company. It is not enough for them to know that they will be fired for violation of a safety rule, they need to be motivated to perform their work safely even when there is no one watching them. 

People must be inspired to be accountable to themselves. If they put their goals and plans down on paper, then they take possession of their own behavior to a greater extent This motivates them to do something and gives them the time, direction, and a reason to find new or better ways to accomplish their goals and plans. As many experts will tell you, you should put your goals or plans in writing. If you can not write them down, then you probably will never achieve them. 

The three most important things to remember about people are people are different, people are different, and people are different With this in mind, yon will need to view each person on a continuum. When trying to figure out what motivates him or her and how you can begin to get a change, look at every aspect concerning that person s life, and try to evaluate what is and is not of importance to him or her. 

Some individuals are superstars. These individuals are self-motivated and aU you have to do is give them support and minimal guidance and then just step back and watch them go. Others, on the other hand, seem to lack any motivation at all. These individuals need to have things structured for them, know exactly what is expected of them, know what happens if they do not perform, and know what the reward or outcome of their performance will be. 

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