When I first heard the statement, “That’s the spirit” - it was said after a comment I made, “I can’t be bothered”.
It made me laugh.
It got me thinking about the word ‘spirit’ in the context of determination and attitude when we aren’t feeling that way.
We all have times when our motivation wanes, when it becomes more difficult, or when energy is difficult to come by. Usually, it’s because we’ve had a setback of some sort or have been working hard for a long period of time.
How can we get our mojo back when we feel lethargic, when we can’t be bothered, and when we are tired of pushing through?
Researchers have identified 15 core motives that drive human behaviour, grouped into five categories: environmental, physiological, reproductive, psychological, and social.
These motives were developed as survival mechanisms from which Maslow built his Hierarchy of Needs model. They are ingrained in our survival behaviours.
When motivation is low and challenges feel heavy, these 15 core motives can help you reconnect with your energy and drive to achieve your goals:
Environmental:
👉 Hoard – Collect items like food, money, or even digital assets (e.g., cryptocurrency) to ensure future security.
👉 Create – Invent a new gadget, write a post/article/book, or develop a new programme, presentation or similar.
Physiological:
👉 Fear – Avoid places that make you fearful or heighten your senses.
👉 Disgust – Avoid anything that causes you to feel disgust such as a movie, a book, smelly food, etc.
👉 Hunger – Support your energy and focus by eating nourishing meals at regular intervals.
👉 Comfort – Seek places of comfort or do things that make you feel safe.
Reproductive:
👉 Lust – Be with those who you love to be with.
👉 Attract - Present yourself in a way that feels confident and polished, like you would for an important meeting or first impression.
👉 Love – Cultivate meaningful connections, whether with a partner, family member, or close friend.
👉 Nurture - Take care of a child, pet, or a plant.
Psychological:
👉 Curiosity – Read a book, watch a documentary, pull something apart or explore an area you haven’t been before.
👉 Play - Play a sport, video game, or engaging in a hobby.
Social:
👉 Affiliate - Join a club, team, or social group to feel a sense of belonging.
👉 Status – Work hard for a promotion or recognition in your field.
👉 Justice - Advocate for fair treatment and equality, such as participating in social justice movements.
These are just some examples to illustrate how fundamental motives manifest in everyday life and can motivate us through dopamine.
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that motivates us and from which we learn from.
Going back to earlier times can help us move into the future.
Let’s talk!
That's The Spirit!