Informational Motivation

[Knowing & Doing - III]

“Will this be on the test?”
“How fast do I need to go?”
“Will anyone be checking?”
“What are the consequences if I do/don’t?”

Motivation that depends on information will run dry eventually. Probably very soon.

A coach, with the threat of running, can only motivate his team so much. A teacher, with the “threat” of a test, can only prompt so much learning. The same is true for a boss and employee productivity.

The drive to improve and win must come from within the player. The curiosity to learn must come from within the student. The hunger to produce good work must be internal, regardless if the boss is around.

Information helps measure performance, but it’s a terrible motivator.

A student, for example, surrounded by brilliant teachers, knowledge-seeking peers, and a world-class library, asks if this or that information will be on the test. It’s a crime against real education. Against real learning. And it's a terrible motivator, in the end.

Motivation comes from inside. It must.
(If not, it will mislead you into thinking you’re getting an education when really you’re getting a very expensive certificate.)

Have you found your motivation? Look inside.