Motivation is the force that initiates, guides, and sustains goal-oriented behavior. We act out of motivation, which can be biological, social, emotional, or cognitive in nature.
Watch the picture and remember what you see first, then read below to find out what it says about you:
Human motivation is explained by a few solid theories in psychology:
Instinct
In the instinct theory of motivation, people are motivated to act a certain way because they are evolutionarily programmed to do so
Incentive
According to the Incentive Theory of Motivation, people perform actions for external rewards, such as money for going to work.
Drive
According to the drive theory of motivation, people can be motivated to act because of internal tension caused by unmet needs.
Arousal
Arousal theory of motivation says that people take certain actions to either decrease or increase levels of arousal; such as going to the gym when arousal levels are low, or attempting to relax when arousal levels are too high.
Humanistic
People also have strong mental reasons for performing various actions, according to humanistic theories of motivation. Maslow’s hierarchy of needs is an example of this, which presents different motivations at different levels.
Expectancy
We think of and imagine different expectations about what will happen in the future when we are considering the future, according to the expectancy theory of motivation.
The key to taking action is believing it will succeed.
Which image did you see first? Was it an apple? A butterfly? Find out what motivates you by reading on:
The Apple
When you first saw the apple when looking at the picture, you are someone who tends to wear their heart on their sleeve and also sees the best in others. When you’re in a relationship, you tend to be very loyal and devoted. You value unconditional love highly, and sometimes even go beyond your own boundaries of self-care and self-protection to help those you love. You are able to forgive the people in your life, and you are the glue that holds everything together.
Trust is one of the main motivating factors you can use to motivate yourself and to keep life flowing smoothly. When you trust each other, your bonds and love can grow, whether it is in a relationship or friendship. As trust is built, you are also able to hear and understand what others are saying to you much easier, and they are able to do the same for you.
In order to be able to trust someone, one must remain true to themselves and continue believing the best in everyone, as well as giving them the benefit of the doubt. People tend to live up to your expectations when you trust them, so it has a wonderful compounding effect. However, if someone’s actions contradict what they tell you quite often, you may need to have a serious discussion with them or move on, because trust is something you need to have.
The Butterfly
When you first saw the butterfly in this picture, you must have great faith and hope. In spite of the dark night, the sun will rise tomorrow, and this deep understanding gives you a brilliant and bright optimism that makes people really, really like you.
It is likely that you have been through difficult times in your life, but have emerged to become the beautiful, loving and caring person that you are today.
Motivation comes from always remembering what you deeply love most deeply within your heart, as this is the shining light through any challenging time. You have discovered a connection within your heart to something extraordinary if you have meditated, practiced yoga, or engaged in spiritual practices. When you quiet and relax your mind, and focus on the quiet whispers and sensations of your heart, you find an openness and softness that is tender, dear, and soothing, and being surrounded by it brightens every aspect of your being. Stay motivated by staying in your heart and you will always find your way to the morning light that always exists and will soon shine on you.
You are loved.
This video shows a kind student donating three bags of clothes to a bullied classmate who wore the same outfit every day:
What a beautiful young man who could see the need in someone else and choose to bring out to love in each of them … because not only does it show the kindness in the heart of the giver, but it will also allow kindness to bloom in the heart of the young man who received the gift as that action will remain in his heart and I’m sure that he will ‘pass on’ this compassion to others, the same as was shown to him, throughout his life. Kindness often sees it passed on.