How We Decide – Motivation

Motivation influences how we make decisions.    According to the expectancy theory proposed by Victor Vroom, employees in an organization are the most motivated when they think an effort will result in better performance, and that better performance can lead to rewards they value.  Based on the same theory, Professor Richard W. Scholl of the University of Rhode Island poses that motivational force accomplishes three things:

• Energizes behavior
• Directs behavior
• Sustains behavior

Let’s explore each of them.

Energizing behavior

Motivational force gets us going.  It gives us impetus to take on an effort. It provides energy to sustain the effort and overcome the challenges and obstacles that always come with worthwhile endeavors.

Directing behavior

It directs our attention towards the things we believe are necessary to accomplish what we set out to do.  It informs our judgment to help make decisions that will be consistent with the aim.

Sustaining behavior

It helps us keep up with whatever we have to do to accomplish our aim or commitment.  It provides oxygen to our persistence and perseverance muscles.

The following diagram, developed by Professor Scholl, depicts motivational force in an equations format.  It further defines and explains the concept:  Motivation = Valence x Expectancy(Instrumentality). This means that motivational force is the product of our perception of the chances or probability that an effort will produce valuable results times the probability that the outcome of our efforts will lead to expected reward times the value we place on the expected reward.

Here are three questions I developed to inform my own decisions and to assess others’ motivation towards assignments and responsibilities assigned to them.

• Can I/you get it done?
• What will I/you get from doing it?
• How important is what I/you will get for me/you?

If you find yourself or others not fully engaged in something, use these questions to explore motivational forces and decision-making approaches affecting job performances.

There are many more motivation theories.  I have found this one to be the most useful at work.  I hope it works for you too.

The BEST is Yet to Come!

Epi Torres, CEO