Chapter 1: The Reality of Motivation

“Don’t even tell me I lack motivation.” Rolls eyes

You can’t possibly understand what I’m dealing with when you make that claim. I’m tirelessly striving to get ahead, build a life, and yes, perhaps start a family (mostly with dogs and cats; maybe a husband could fit in there too).

I deal with anxiety, have trouble sleeping, navigate through my days in a fog, and generally feel quite unhappy.

So how can anyone assert that I’m unmotivated to improve my circumstances?

I’ve heard similar sentiments from friends frustrated with their situations.

I have my own complaints too.

I put in maximum effort at work and return home exhausted and battered (sometimes literally). I get called every name imaginable—by kids, no less. It’s quite a joy!

Of course, I see those online videos of people making six figures as adult babies, dogs, or cosplaying various characters. While I won’t be putting naked videos of myself online, perhaps I could try being an adult cat?

Anyone willing to help pay off my six-figure student debt while I pretend to be your virtual feline? I’m lactose intolerant, but I’ll happily meow and paint my face. Anyone?

Oh, I guess I’m on my own with this.

Photo by Lacie Slezak on Unsplash

Let’s delve into what motivation truly means.

Is it a choice, an action, or a feeling?

Picture this scenario:

Imagine a sterile room devoid of windows, furnished only with a table and two chairs. You’re seated in one chair when I enter and take the seat opposite you. I remove my sunglasses (because we’re indoors) and pull out a bundle of cash—$10,000—and then ten individuals walk in behind me.

I place the cash on the table before you and say, “Hello insert your name here, if you can learn each of their full names, birthdays, and educational backgrounds, this $10,000 is yours. I’ll return in 20 minutes.”

What would your reaction be?

In behavioral analysis, this is referred to as an Establishing Operation (EO). I’ve presented you with an enticing option that you feel extremely motivated to pursue. You think to yourself, "I can definitely get that $10,000."

Now, consider this:

The same room, the same situation. I take off my sunglasses and pull out the same $10,000. However, this time, I tell you that you only have one minute to learn the ten names, birthdays, and educational details. You throw your hands up in frustration and exclaim, “That’s impossible!” I respond, “Too bad! I’m keeping this cash.”

Your motivation has drastically shifted. The task seemed unattainable, leading you to give up. This is known as an Abolishing Operation (AO). You ceased pursuing something because the pressure and the chance of failure felt overwhelming.

In 1982, Jack Michael published a pivotal article titled “Distinguishing between Discriminative and Motivational Functions of Stimuli.” He outlined concepts that are now widely accepted in the behavioral sciences. His intellectual lineage includes B.F. Skinner, who introduced the idea of drive.

What motivates you?

Is it financial gain? If you show up to work daily because you enjoy earning money, your establishing operation is money, while your abolishing operation is an empty wallet. You desire money because you dislike being broke.

Now, you might be wondering about a friend who frequently changes jobs. Just hypothetically, of course.

Great question!

So, why does your friend keep switching jobs? Motivation is fluid. Initially, they might be motivated by the prospect of meeting new colleagues or earning a better salary. However, their current job may become an AO when they spot a new, shiny opportunity on the horizon. So they leave, only for the same cycle to repeat when that job eventually becomes the AO.

Now, how can you maintain your motivation? Having multiple jobs on your resume can look unfavorable.

Take a moment to reflect on what you dislike about your jobs. Is it the people, the pay, or the work environment? List these factors out. Things often appear differently on paper than in our minds. Consider your options. If the environment makes you unhappy, it might be time to transition to a new field. If it’s the people, perhaps you should seek a role that allows for more independence or put in the effort to build and sustain relationships with your coworkers.

Now you have a better understanding of motivation.

But what about your friend who keeps returning to her problematic boyfriend? What’s behind their behavior?

Just kidding—questions can be asked at any time!

She might think, “Don’t say I lack motivation when I’ve tolerated him for this long.” Meanwhile, he may rationalize, “Don’t claim I lack motivation to be with her since I keep coming back.”

Regardless of their justifications, it’s evident that their separation initially acts as an EO when he breaks up with her. Over time, being apart transitions into an AO for him as he misses the comfort, intimacy, or other aspects of their relationship. He will continue to return as long as she allows it. What drives her? Is she dependent on him? Is fear of loneliness pushing her to stay in the relationship?

Motivational principles can be found in nearly every aspect of life, from animals and businesses to relationships and scientific endeavors.

As millennials, we’re all hustling for our slice of the pie.

What inspires you to keep going?

To summarize, motivation stems from the concept of drive. An Establishing Operation (EO) represents what you desire, while an Abolishing Operation (AO) signifies what you wish to avoid. For further reading, check out more resources here.

Chapter 2: Exploring Motivation Further

The first video titled "How to Get Motivated (Even When You Don't Feel Like It)" features Dr. K from HealthyGamerGG, who shares valuable insights on cultivating motivation even during challenging times.

The second video, "10 Ways to Get Motivated (When You Have NO Motivation)," offers practical tips for reigniting your motivation when it seems elusive.