What Is Motivation.

 

Motivation is one of the most frequently researched topics in OB. We define motivation as the processes that account for an individual's intensity, direction, and persistence of effort toward attaining a goal. Although general motivation is concerned with effort toward any goal, we will narrow the focus on organizational goals.

 

The three key elements in our definition are intensity, direction, and persistence. Intensity describes how hard a person tries. High intensity may not necessarily lead to a favorable job performance itself. The effort must be channeled in a direction that benefits the organization. Effort directed toward, and consistent with, the organization´s goals is the kind of effort we should be seeking. Finally, motivation has a persistence dimension. This measures how long a person can maintain effort. 

 

In the upcoming concepts we are going to take a look at early and as well contemporary theories on motivation.