Why intrinsic motivation is important

Research shows that intrinsically motivated employees perform better, are less likely to experience burnout, and stay with their employer longer. In today's tight labor market, this is more important than ever, as it's becoming increasingly difficult to attract and retain the right talent. Your intrinsic motivation not only contributes to your own job satisfaction but also to the success of the organization you work for.

What motivates you?

What precisely motivates you can differ greatly from your colleagues. Perhaps you thrive on clear structure and expectations, while someone else flourishes with freedom and creativity in their work.

Discovering what drives you begins with recognizing your unique motivators. According to Clare W. Graves' theory of motivators, developed into the so-called 'Spiral Dynamics', there are seven different motivators that influence our actions. Each of these motivators has specific characteristics and desires that shape our motivation.

Align your work with your motivators

Once you know what your motivators are, you can make conscious choices in your work.

Strengthening your intrinsic motivation begins with creating a work environment that aligns with what energizes you. If you work in an environment that doesn't support your motivators, you'll notice that you burn out faster and enjoy what you do less. You can then, for example, try to redistribute tasks, redefine your work-life balance, or seek a different work environment that suits you better.

If you know who you are and what you want, you can become the architect of your own job satisfaction.

The effect on your performance and well-being

A work environment that aligns with your motivators not only has positive effects on your performance but also on your well-being. Employees who feel engaged and do work that suits them are happier, more productive, and less often sick. This is a win-win situation for both you and your employer. Intrinsically motivated employees cost their employer less due to lower absenteeism and simultaneously deliver more through their higher productivity.

Conclusion: Start today

Discovering and strengthening your intrinsic motivation is not a luxury, but a necessary step towards greater job satisfaction and success. Take the time to reflect on what truly motivates you and look for ways to integrate this into your daily work. Work that aligns with your motivators is not only more enjoyable but also contributes to a successful and happy career.

Want to learn more about how you can discover and utilize your intrinsic motivation? Then download our comprehensive whitepaper and start shaping your ideal workplace today.