Definition and dimensions of MOTIVATION

A classic textbook definition of motivation is given by Mullins (2002), who says that motivation is a ‘driving force’ through which people strive to achieve their goals and fulfil a need or uphold a value. The important words here are ‘needs’, ‘values’ and ‘goals’ and these are the building blocks of motivation that lead to actions:

Needs are basic requirements for survival and maybe physical or psychological; for example, hunger, thirst, love or friendship.

Values are the things that we consider to be most important; for example, family, health or wealth. Goals are the outcomes that we are working towards.