As previously discussed in the last identity blog, values can be motivating factors for our behaviors. But
what else is potentially motivating to us? In today’s blog, we will discuss how motivation and purpose are
a part of our identity that also guides our behaviors.
Motivation
In an article on the behavioral neuroscience of motivation, the National Institute of Health defines
motivation as “the energizing of behavior in pursuit of a goal.” We are motivated by biological basic needs in
service of our survival, as well as psychological motivations. Motivations can be intrinsic, meaning they
are motivated by internal factors, such as personal satisfaction or fulfilment. Motivations can be extrinsic, meaning they
are motivated by external factors such as getting a reward or avoiding punishment.
Purpose
Finding purpose in what we are doing is an intrinsic motivation that can fuel us to behave in certain ways.
Without purpose, life becomes meaningless, and we lose the energy and motivation to continue forward.
Mothers against Drunk Driving (MADD) is a perfect example of finding a greater purpose through a tragic
experience. According to the website, “MADD began with one woman’s brave
decision to turn her grief into action.” and this organization has grown into a movement to inform our traffic laws and educate others on safety. This organization is just one of countless examples of meaning-
making and creating purpose in this life, regardless of, or even because of what we have been through.
How To Find Purpose
Purpose can be fueled by your interests and what you find fulfilling. So how do we know what that is?
There are a few questions we can ask ourselves in order to find direction here:
1. What is important to me? This can be a particular cause, activity, or a topic.
2. What am I passionate about? or What excites me? This can indicate to us where our natural
interests lie.
3. What impression do I want to leave on the world? This can connect us to a greater purpose for
our lives.
4. What do I enjoy doing? Sometimes an activity having purpose to you does not mean it has to
change the world. Its purpose can be to bring you closer to your values. For example, let’s say
someone values fun. Multiple things can fulfill that value, such as traveling, playing a sport, or
even something as simple as reading a book.
Finding purpose can also be motivated by our experiences in life and how they have shaped us, as in the
example above.
Principles
One final thing that can help us here is connecting to a guiding principle. A guiding principle is a
fundamental belief, rule, or idea that helps guide our behaviors, much like values, and can be linked to
motivation and purpose. Examples include: Be kind; Give it your all; Lead with integrity/honesty; Family
first. Find whatever phrase resonates with you and how you want to live your life, and that will generate
motivation and purpose that will in turn provide direction in your actions. If you would like to explore your
personal motivations, principles, and purpose please reach out. You can contact us through our website HERE or you can give us a call at 832-352-1600. We look forward to joining you as you journey to a happier, healthier you!
