With the year stretching ahead and much to accomplish within the year, what motivates us to achieve our goals? Motivation is a topic that has been strenuously researched because it influences so many areas. Academic studies, work, sport, hobbies, creative pursuits, and personal relationships are all impacted by the degree of motivation that contributes to achieving goals in these areas.
There are numerous factors that influence motivation, and Locus of Control is one factor that has been identified as having a significant influence on the level of motivation. Locus of Control means whether an individual's belief system attributes outcomes as being directed by internal or external forces. It is also related to whether a person's drive is internal or external. Does the student believe that they are able to make a difference to the outcome through their own actions (i.e., achieving a stronger result by putting more effort into preparation and study), which is an example of an internal locus of control. Alternatively, does the student believe that the outcome is purely a matter of luck or fate (i.e., outside of the individual's control, or an external locus of control)? Does the individual have a personal commitment to the goal or is the expectation placed upon the individual by others? Is there an internal locus of control with an appreciation of external acknowledgement of achievement? One's belief about Locus of Control really matters.
Personal belief systems influence how an individual approaches a challenge as well as the behaviour associated with the task. This includes the amount of effort that individuals put into tasks and challenges. If a student believes that nothing done will make a difference to the outcome, there is unlikely to be any point seen for expending effort. On the other hand, if one believes that what is done will make a positive impact on the outcome, then the student believes that it is worthwhile putting in effort and is much more likely to feel motivated to do so.
The underlying belief influences the behaviour; the behaviour in turn affects the outcome. When the outcome is positive behaviour, this powerfully influences the belief system and, in turn, influences the behaviour again. This sounds circuitous, doesn't it? In fact, it is an upward spiral that can have an enormous impact on the continuing level of motivation and personal achievement of goals.
If an individual sets their own goals, believes that what they do is important and takes action to influence the outcome, it is amazing what can be achieved.
© Michele Juratowitch
michele@clearingskies.com.au