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The Global Insight

What is the true meaning of motivation?

Author

James Olson

Updated on March 24, 2026

: the act or process of giving someone a reason for doing something : the act or process of motivating someone. : the condition of being eager to act or work : the condition of being motivated. : a force or influence that causes someone to do something.

Who defined motivation?

The American motivation psychologist Abraham H. Maslow (1954) developed the hierarchy of needs consisting of five hierarchic classes. According to Maslow, people are motivated by unsatisfied needs.

Is motivation a feeling?

Motivations are closely related to emotions. A motivation is a driving force that initiates and directs behaviour. Some motivations are biological, such as the motivation for food, water, and sex.

What is the best example of motivation?

Here are some of the most common examples of motivation in life driven by pleasure:

  • Survival needs (food, shelter, clothing)
  • Accomplishment (school, career, sports, etc.)
  • Fun (partying, dancing, playing, beach, etc.)
  • Taste (food)
  • Curiosity (needing to know something)
  • Laughter (feeling uplifted)
  • Sex (dopamine release)

What is the definition of motivation in management?

Motivation is the word derived from the word ’motive’ which means needs, desires, wants or drives within the individuals. It is the process of stimulating people to actions to accomplish the goals. One of the most important functions of management is to create willingness amongst the employees to perform in the best…

What does it mean to have motivation in Your Life?

Motivation is an internal process. Whether we define it as a drive or a need, motivation is a condition inside us that desires a change, either in the self or the environment.

Where does the word motivation come from in English?

Motivation is the word derived from the word ’motive’ which means needs, desires, wants or drives within the individuals.

Which is the best description of a motive?

A motive is a goal, an aim, ambition, a need, a want, an interest, or a desire that motivates an individual towards an action. On the other hand, the term ‘Motivation’ refers to the process in which motives motivates an individual towards an action. There are two major types of Motivation.