Computers are magnificent tools for the realization of our dreams, but no machine can replace the human spark of spirit, compassion, love, and understanding. Louis Gerstner

Lately, I have been giving some thought to motivation. Not the inspiring kind of motivation, but the individual internal kind.

So, I have been doing some research to try to understand what motivates people to do what they do. I think I am really trying to determine the intrinsic desire of humans…. at least the sane ones. And perhaps that’s my first mistake, the assumption that any of us are sane.

I found this rather definitive motivational breakdown describing the four basic motivational factors.

Recognition-People who are motivated by “Recognition” are interested in respect, admiration, regard, esteem, notoriety and celebrity.

Influence-Those whose primary motivator is “Influence” find power, control, competition, independence and order to be most important.

Internal- If you are motivated by “Internal” factors, then morals, duty, intellect, creativity, philanthropy, and honor are important to you.

Profit -“Profit” motivated people strive for success with money, possessions, acquisitions, wealth, income and growth.

I fluctuate between wondering what are people’s motives and why the heck should I care. Why should any of us care? Kind of goes in the realm of worrying about what people think. Unfortunately, the motives of others affects others and I am apart of “others”. And that is why I care.

Recognizing and understanding the above factors should teach me about my own motivation. In truth I believe we all are motivated by all of these factors to some degree. Deciding the order of importance with unabashed honesty can be enlightening and perhaps painful and maybe motivational… don’t you think?