We are motivated to achieve our goals and to succeed. While a multitude of factors affect motivation, one of the most influential is emotion. Studies after studies have shown positive emotions are the key to catalyzing motivation, which in turn results in higher performance, innovations, and well-being.
Positive Emotions and How They Motivate Us
What scientists do know is that positive emotions like joy, gratitude, hope and excitement trigger a cascade of positive physiological and psychological responses that can motivate people. Barbara Fredrickson’s “Broaden-and-Build” theory of positive emotions states that positive emotions broaden our cognitive and behavioral tendencies, leaving us more open to new experiences and ideas. Seeing the bigger picture of problem-solving can also provide greater resilience — another critical element when it comes to staying motivated over the long run.
From a neurological standpoint, positive emotion creates dopamine release, a neurotransmitter related to reward and motivation. Their brain rewards them for that effort by making them feel good for the behaviors that created it, which motivates them to keep trying, to endure hardships.
How Motivation is Energized By Positive Emotions
- Improving Goal-Setting and PersistenceIndividuals are more likely to set challenging goals and persist in reaching them when they are in a positive emotional state. Both optimism and confidence are related to positive emotions and allow people to look at challenges as new opportunities instead of obstacles.
- Enhancing Creativity and Problem-SolvingPositive feelings support divergent thinking, enabling people to consider many answers to a dilemma. This shifts the focus from the task itself to the emotions and experiences of the task, making it more exciting and vibrant, which motivates further action.
- Enhanced Energy and Productivity-Happiness and positive feelings are directly correlated with increased energy, which leads to improved productivity. Positive emotions in employees and students are college to a more engaging and valuable work.
- Building Social Networks-Positive emotions lead to improved social relations, which can be a major source of motivation. Having a support system of like-minded people encourages you, holds you accountable, and provides inspiration that re-emphasizes your goal.
Building Up Positive Emotions for Lasting Motivation
To boost your positivity level — there is an inherent link between positive emotions and motivation, it is prudent to foster a positive mindset. Here are some ideas to increase positive emotions:
- Write Down Things You Are Grateful For – Writing down things you are grateful for helps cultivate a sense of abundance and happiness.
- Get Engaged in Enjoyable Activities – Emotional well-being is boosted by hobbies, exercise, and social interactions.
- Differentiate – You will be teaching a motley crew, having diverse skill levels and grasping what you teach.
- Be with positive people – Being around uplifting and encouraging people brings more happiness.
- Recognize Small Victories — Completing a small milestone and celebrating it boosts morale and fosters motivation.
Conclusion
Positive emotions can propel motivation and lead to success more than happy moments. Such development ultimately strengthens individuals’ capacity to goal set and accomplish, to press forward amidst adversity, and sustain productivity and creative output. “On the other hand, a happy mind translates to a motivated living.
