motivation essay revou

Contoh Cover Letter untuk Pindah Karier ke E-Commerce

Melihat meroketnya sektor e-commerce, tidak mengherankan jika minat terhadap pekerjaan di sektor ini juga kian bertambah dan semakin banyak orang yang berlomba-lomba untuk menjadi karyawan di perusahaan e-commerce.

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Di beberapa tahun belakang, pertumbuhan industri e-commerce kian memuncak. Berdasarkan riset Google, Temasek, serta Bain & Company, pertumbuhan sektor e-commerce di Indonesia telah meningkat 12 kali lipat hanya dalam 4 tahun terakhir.

Di tahun 2019, sektor e-commerce Indonesia juga  tercatat menghasilkan Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) sebesar $21 miliar dollar AS.  Salah satu faktor pendorong hal tersebut adalah peningkatan jumlah pengguna internet dan tentunya online shoppers di Indonesia.

Tentunya sejalan dengan melesatnya pertumbuhan bisnis e-commerce , pasar tenaga kerja juga menerima dampak positif baik dari sisi permintaan ( demand ) dan penawaran ( supply ). Berdasarkan data iPrice , jumlah karyawan perusahaan e-commerce menunjukkan peningkatan yang sangat pesat. Mengambil contoh Tokopedia sebagai e-commerce dengan pengunjung web bulanan terbanyak di Q3 2019 (65 juta pengunjung per bulan), dalam dua tahun Tokopedia telah menambah hingga lebih dari 2000 karyawan.

Melihat meroketnya industri ini, tidak mengherankan jika minat terhadap pekerjaan di sektor e-commerce juga kian bertambah dan semakin banyak orang yang berlomba-lomba untuk menjadi karyawan di perusahaan e-commerce.

Tapi bagaimana dengan kamu yang telah merintis karier di industri lain dan mulai menyadari minatnya untuk berkarier di sektor e-commerce ? Tentu kamu memerlukan usaha lebih karena harus berpindah jalur karier. Misalnya, mencari jabatan atau posisi yang masih relevan dengan pengalaman kerjanya atau mungkin mempelajari skill baru yang dapat menjadi bekal tambahan saat mendaftar kerja.

Tantangan lainnya adalah untuk membuktikan kepada calon manajer bahwa kamu memiliki pengalaman dan keahlian yang dibutuhkan oleh perusahaan tersebut. Salah satu media yang bisa kamu gunakan untuk meyakinkan calon manajer adalah cover letter.

Cover letter merupakan senjata yang efektif untuk kamu yang ingin berganti jalur karier. Berbeda dengan resume yang menunjukkan data historis pengalaman kerjamu, pada cover letter ,  kamu bisa menjelaskan alasan mengapa pengalaman dan keahlian yang kamu miliki itu relevan dan berguna untuk pekerjaan yang kamu lamar.

Hal yang perlu kamu perhatikan saat menulis cover letter

Dapatkan perhatian sejak awal surat.

Jangan gunakan kalimat pasaran untuk membuka suratmu, seperti

I’m excited to apply as Customer Experience Specialist at Shopee Indonesia

Sebab calon manajermu pasti sudah ribuan kali membaca kalimat pembuka tersebut dan mungkin berhenti membaca cover letter- mu karena tidak ingin membuang waktu untuk membaca hal yang sama berulang kali. Karena itu, bangun ekspektasi manajer sejak awal dengan bercerita. Mulailah suratmu dengan menceritakan pengalamanmu yang menarik namun tetap relevan dengan posisi yang kamu lamar.

Perkenalkan Dirimu

Ingat bahwa tujuanmu menulis cover letter ini adalah untuk meyakinkan manajer bahwa kamu memiliki keahlian yang dibutuhkan oleh perusahaan. Karena itu, pastikan bahwa kamu mengemas kalimat perkenalanmu sesuai dengan itu. Anggaplah bagian ini sebagai kesempatanmu menunjukkan kualitas dan hal yang membedakanmu dari karyawan lain.

Tentunya, jangan sampai kamu memberikan terlalu banyak informasi yang tidak diperlukan. Misalnya kamu melamar sebagai Creative Writer di Tokopedia, jangan menulis

I have a past experience as Strategic Marketing Officer at Bank Mandiri

karena informasi tersebut terlalu lebar dan tidak menyasar inti ceritamu. Sebagai gantinya, kamu bisa menuliskan

I’m a passionate marketer who’s experienced in strategic planning and have a high interest in creative ads.

Jelaskan Alasanmu Berpindah Jalur Karier

Apa yang menyebabkan kami ingin memulai karier di sektor e-commerce ? Apakah kamu memiliki pengalaman pribadi yang menumbuhkan minatmu terhadap e-commerce ? Atau kamu sudah melihat sendiri bagaimana sektor ini menghasilkan dampak positif bagi masyarakat banyak?

Pastikan kamu menjelaskan alasan-alasan tersebut dengan baik agar ceritamu meninggalkan kesan tersendiri ketika dibaca oleh rekruter. Misalnya, kamu bisa menuliskan

Minat saya untuk berkarier di Bukalapak mulai bulat karena saya sendiri melihat dampak bisnis Bukalapak dalam memberdayakan ekonomi masyarakat lokal. Ketika mengunjungi saudara jauh saya yang tinggal di Jepara, saya menyaksikan bahwa saudara saya tersebut sangat terbantu oleh program Mitra Bukalapak. Karena setelah bergabung, bisnisnya jadi lebih berkembang karena proses distribusi barang jualannya jadi lebih mudah sekarang.

Pastikan ceritamu menunjukkan bahwa kamu telah meluangkan waktu untuk mencari tau secara mendalam mengenai sektor e-commerce serta perusahaan yang kamu lamar. Jangan tuliskan alasan yang terlalu umum seperti

Saya tertarik untuk bergabung di Tokopedia karena saya terkesan dengan iklan perusahaan yang saya lihat di billboard di Jalan Sudirman" atau "Minat saya tumbuh karena setelah beberapa kali menggunakan aplikasi Shopee, saya merasa kehidupan saya terbantu olehnya. Sehingga saya merasa dengan bekerja di Shopee, saya dapat membantu kehidupan masyarakat luas.

Tunjukkan Keahlianmu yang Relevan

Berpindah jalur karier memang bukan hal yang mudah karena kamu akan membutuhkan keahlian-keahlian baru yang tidak kamu perlukan di pekerjaanmu yang sebelumnya. Karena itu, pastikan kamu menonjolkan keahlianmu yang betul-betul dibutuhkan oleh perusahaan e-commerce dalam cover letter ini.

Jenis keahlian yang banyak dibutuhkan di perusahaan teknologi berhubungan dengan keterampilan berbasis data ( data-driven skill ). Alasannya karena proses pembuatan keputusan di perusahaan teknologi sangat bergantung pada data, sehingga kebutuhan akan kemampuan mengolah data sangat tinggi. Beberapa contoh keahlian yang bisa kamu tunjukkan adalah data analytics dan problem solving. Jangan lupa untuk tuliskan contoh pengalamanmu yang menunjukkan keahlian tersebut, ya.

Argumen Penutup

Tutup cover letter ini dengan kalimat yang menyimpulkan seluruh poin penting yang kamu jelaskan sebelumnya. Pastikan kalimat penutup ini juga masih berkaitan dan tidak keluar dari topik pembahasan. Selain itu, tunjukkan juga apa yang dapat kamu berikan untuk perusahaan, bukan sebaliknya. Contohnya

I really look forward to make use of my analytical skills and experiences in contributing to the digital marketing team here at Bukalapak

Sampel Cover Letter

Untuk kamu yang masih di tahap awal karier.

Dear Miss Ghina Ruri,

In my last year of college, I've taken an opportunity to join a student journalist organization and was exposed with various kinds of content creations activities, such as making articles and news reports. At that time, I got to know how fascinating content making is and started to grow my curiosity in this area. I channeled my interest by applying as a content marketing intern at Flokq on my summer break. There I learnt for the first time how content could really help startups in growing their business.

After graduating with degree in psychology, I decided to work as a human resource specialist for 2 years. I've sharped my communication skills in employee relations, worked on company's recruiting strategies, and most importantly made sure to understand and provide for the needs of our employees. Working in human resources has shaped me into a more understanding person. I believe I'm now ready to shift my journey to work as a Content Marketing Specialist in Tokopedia. Here is how my skills and experience could fit to your specific needs:

• Knowing what customers need : I am used to leverage company's data to know whether our strategy could meet with our employees' needs. I have been recognized for my ability in analyzing data and using it to develop new solutions for our employee development strategy.
• Content creations and distributions : When I was working as a content marketing intern, I managed to create 20+ articles and social media posts which increase the company's organic traffic to 25% in 4 months.

I am really looking forward to work in the e-commerce industry. Based on my research, our country has a really promising future for e-commerce to flourish. Indonesia shows a lot of analogies with where China was 10 years ago, when it comes to online retail penetration. Given how fast the Chinese e-commerce market grew, this makes me confident that Indonesia has the potential to become the next giant e-commerce market globally.

As one of the biggest e-commerce player in Indonesia, I see that Tokopedia is not only focusing on growing the business but also creating economy impact to the country. Its vision to make "Super Ecosystem" which enables every stakeholders to contribute and create value really amazes me. Because it's great to know that if I work at Tokopedia, I would be able to take part in establishing economic equality in Indonesia.

I am keen to learn more about how I could contribute more for the growth of Tokopedia, using the skills and background that I have. I look forward to discuss it with you soon.

Best regards,

Rizal Sidiq

Tertarik memulai karir di bidang Tech?

Di RevoU, kamu bisa bertemu dengan career coach yang akan membimbing segala persiapanmu untuk bekerja di bidang tech mulai dari: membuat CV, merapihkan profil LinkedIn , menyusun portofolio , melatih wawancara dan berbagai best practice lainnya.

Program career coaching ini dapat kamu temukan jika mengikuti program :

• Full Stack Digital Marketing [ cek di sini ]
• Full Stack Business Development [ cek di sini ]
• Full Stack Data Analytics [ cek di sini ]

di mana kamu akan belajar langsung dari profesional yang bekerja di startup unicorn seperti Tokopedia, Gojek, Traveloka, Grab yang akan melatihmu agar siap bekerja di industri 4.0.

pst, ada jaminan kerja sampai 100% juga loh!

Nur Fajriah Syukri

Content Marketing Executive di RevoU.

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Motivational Letter Writing Guide + Examples for 2024

You’re about to apply for the job opportunity of your dreams.

You’ve worked hard, and you can’t wait to take the next step in your career.

All that’s left for you to do is write a motivational letter.

But writing a motivational letter can be nerve-wracking.

Two hours and three coffees in, you’ve scrolled through your Facebook newsfeed (twice), watched one episode of the last season of Game of Thrones, sent angry tweets to its creators, and donated for the knee surgery of two dogs. 

You go back to your open Word doc, and all you’ve managed to write is, “This program seems like fun” or “I’ll totally be a great fit for your organization.”

Don’t worry! We’re here to help.

In this article, we’re going to cover:

• How to Write a Motivational Letter, Step-by-Step
• A Great Example of a Motivational Letter
• Useful Motivational Letter Tips

What Is a Motivational Letter?

A motivational letter, sometimes also called a letter of motivation, is a formal letter that you might have to submit when applying for an educational program or a job. Its goal is to show the hiring manager or admissions officer why you’re the perfect candidate for the position.

Motivational letters are typically submitted alongside your CV or resume . Unlike a cover letter, which gives practical examples of how your skills and experience match the opening, a motivational letter focuses more on your personality, interests, and motivation to apply.

When Do You Need a Motivational Letter?

A motivational letter is usually required when an organization wants to gauge your enthusiasm, cultural fit, and motivations for a particular opportunity.

There are a few situations when you might need to submit a motivational letter, such as:

• You’re applying for an educational program.
• You’re applying to work at a non-profit organization or mission-driven company.
• You’re applying for an internship in a competitive field.
• You’re applying for a volunteer position at a charity or non-government organization.
• You’re applying for a grant, fellowship, or some sort of scholarship .

No matter the situation, a motivational letter serves to express your distinct driving forces and convey your enthusiasm for that specific role, program, or opportunity. That’s why, done right, a motivational letter can convince the reader to go through your application in detail.

However, if the specific position doesn’t explicitly require a motivational letter or other written statement, you might be better off learning how to write a cover letter instead. Cover letters can be a great addition to your application and help you stand out from other candidates who are only relying on their resumes.

How to Write a Motivational Letter

Now that you know what a motivational letter is, it’s time to write your own.

Just follow the steps we’ve outlined, and you’ll be done in no time:

#1. Address Your Letter Appropriately

Your motivational letter should include a header with all the necessary contact details.

For starters, this means you should include your contact information , such as your full name, email address, phone number, and any other details that might be necessary for your application.

Additionally, you should include your intended audience’s contact details. Depending on where and what you’re applying for, this might be either a hiring manager or an admissions officer.

To establish a connection with the reader, include a personalized greeting instead of the generic “To Whom It May Concern.” To do that, you have to find out who the hiring manager or admissions officer is.

Start by doing a bit of research. Review the job listing, the program’s official page, or the application instructions. If you can’t find their name there, check the organization’s website and look for a staff directory.

Once you have their name, address your motivational letter professionally . We recommend using an identifier followed by their last name. But if you’re not sure about their title or gender, you can just use their full name, too. For example:

• Dear Mr. Smith,
• Dear Dr. Singh,
• Dear Cameron Smith,

Just avoid informal greetings like "Hey, John!" – your motivational letter is still meant to be a formal document.

#2. Stick to the Program Requirements

Writing a captivating motivational letter is all about showing the hiring manager or admissions officer how you meet the requirements for the position.

To help get the ball rolling as you start drafting your motivational letter, ask yourself: 

• What kind of applicants are usually admitted to the program? 
• How do you fulfill the requirements?

First, you need to know the exact program requirements and explain how your background and strengths align with the outlined criteria.

Comb through the details the organization has provided about the ideal skills, experiences, qualifications, or personal qualities they’re looking for in a candidate. Maybe they want someone proficient in data analysis , or they’re prioritizing candidates who are passionate about the industry.

Just remember –  you don’t have to highlight how you meet all the listed requirements if your application already includes a detailed academic CV . Just identify the top three to five requirements and give concrete examples of how you meet each.

Here’s an example:

Requirement: Minimum 2 years of volunteer experience

“I was a medical volunteer in Namibia for three years. It’s one of my most fulfilling adventures and transformative experiences so far since I am passionate about helping others. I believe it broadened my horizons and made me more resilient.”

#3. Align with Their Values

Your motivational letter should explain what drives you and show the reader how you share their organization’s values.

Take time to thoroughly research the organization , its culture, objectives, and driving forces. Find what resonates with your own beliefs and goals and mention it in your motivational letter.

But don’t just randomly sprinkle keywords into your letter. Instead, thoughtfully use your passion to build a narrative that shows how your values align with the institution’s mission. 

Be sure to give concrete examples. For instance, if the company values sustainability, you might want to share an anecdotal example, such as:

Values: Sustainability, Climate Action, Nature Conservation

I have a deep passion for nature conservation, and I have volunteered extensively with environmental organizations, especially in restoring local wetland habitats. I also practice eco-friendly habits in my professional life by advocating for reducing workplace waste and single-use plastics.

#4. Express Genuine Interest

Above all, your motivational letter should demonstrate that you really want to be there.

That said, there is a fine line between pleading and showing intelligent interest while also selling yourself. Generic statements can come across as insincere and unmotivated. Instead, write about what really attracted you to the opportunity.

Be as specific as possible and express your passion without necessarily begging them for a chance. For example:

• I would love to live in Aberdeen because I’m fascinated by Highlander culture, and I’m excited to dive into the city’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant community dedicated to the arts, music, and preserving Scottish traditions.
• It is my dream to be part of the Environmental Science Master's program because of its cutting-edge research in sustainable energy solutions and marine conservation efforts, which align with my passion for protecting our planet's ecosystems.

Specific examples and details show you've invested time learning about the organization, which helps your genuine passion shine through your motivational letter.

#5. Personalize It

While showcasing how you meet requirements is crucial, don't be afraid to let some of your personality and voice shine through.

Use descriptive adjectives to paint a fuller picture of who you are beyond just your credentials. Are you an endlessly curious, lifelong learner? A creative problem-solver? Passionate about how technological advancements can be used to increase sustainability?

Let your distinct character and values shine through to make your motivational letter more memorable and help differentiate you from other applicants. This can convey important soft skills and give the reader a glimpse of the person behind the qualifications.

Just make sure you’re still presenting a polished bit of personality and keeping it relevant to the opportunity. For example, if you’re applying for an MA in mathematics, don’t mention your passion for historical re-enactment.

Are you applying for an academic program? Learn how to write an academic personal statement here.

#6. Don’t Just Recap Your CV

Using your motivational letter to simply summarize your CV is a wasted opportunity. If the application requires a motivational letter, they’re looking to get to know you beyond the required stats and qualifications. 

The person reading your motivational letter is looking for the context around your motivations, passions, and aspirations. So, instead of just listing credentials, expand on the driving forces behind your experiences and decisions.

If you’re applying for a master's program, for example, mention your relevant undergraduate coursework, but also explain what sparked your interest in this specialization and why this path is personally meaningful. So, if you’re a History undergrad, elaborate on how volunteering at the archaeology museum made you pursue a graduate degree in Museum Studies and Curatorship.

Here’s a practical example of how that might look:

As a History undergraduate, my passion for preserving and sharing our cultural narratives was sparked by a semester-long museum internship. Working alongside curators as they brought ancient artifacts and stories to life through compelling exhibits opened my eyes to the vital role museums play in education and connecting communities to their roots.

This experience solidified my drive to pursue museum studies at the graduate level, where I can develop professional expertise in responsible collection stewardship, thoughtful exhibition development, and engaging public programming that keeps our shared histories vibrant and accessible for all.

Getting your documents ready for that application? Learn how to write a resume with our detailed guide.

#7. Convey Your Ambitions

Your motivational letter should express your ambitions and aspirations just as much as your relevant achievements . Admissions committees and employers who ask for motivational letters want to clearly understand both your goals and how this opportunity aligns with them.

Share your vision for how you plan to apply the knowledge, essential skills, or experience you'll gain. If it's a job, explain how it will prepare you for further career growth and impact in that field. For an academic program, discuss how you aim to contribute to cutting-edge research or become a leader and mentor.

Don't be afraid to think big - motivated candidates often have big goals of driving innovation, making a difference, or pushing boundaries in their discipline. Just make sure your aspirations are realistic and show that you have a plan and are truly invested in this path for the long term.

Here’s an example of how you can convey your ambitions in your motivational letter:

My long-term goal is to become a leader in sustainable urban design and planning that seamlessly integrates green infrastructure into the built environment. This master's program will equip me with the interdisciplinary skills to develop eco-friendly architectural solutions and climate-resilient city policies that prioritize environmental conservation alongside economic growth and social equity.

#8. Don’t Lie

One of the biggest mistakes you could make while writing your motivational letter is lying.

If you write anything remotely false, the reader will likely sense it. When you lie, you’re likely to unconsciously exaggerate your feelings and ideas. If you tell a fake story or inflate your excitement or achievements, you won’t get anywhere.

Your dishonesty is likely to be exposed and severely damage your credibility, leading to an immediate rejection.

Honesty and integrity are essential to writing an effective motivational letter. The goal of this document is to truly reflect who you are, why you’re the best match for this opportunity, and what you hope to achieve.

Don’t worry if you think your life so far just isn’t impressive enough to write a captivating story. No matter where you’re coming from, you can show the reader your unique perspective, personal growth, and unwavering determination to pursue your passions.

#9. Use a Motivational Letter Template

If you want your motivational letter to make a striking first impression, presentation matters.

A basic black-and-white document from a text editor will hardly stand out. Instead, try one of our professionally designed motivational letter templates for an attention-grabbing solution!

Novoresume offers modern, eye-catching templates that can give your motivational letter a polished look. You can even use the resume builder to match your motivational letter to one of our sleek resume templates for a coherent application.

Save precious time on formatting and create a visually flawless application in no time!

How to Structure a Motivational Letter

You’ve got the gist of how to write a motivational letter down, but it’s just as important to know how to structure it.

If your motivational letter is a messy, haphazard series of unrelated paragraphs, it simply won’t make the cut. You need your motivational letter to tell a coherent story, and this is where the structure comes in.

The whole process will probably require a few drafts until you get to the perfect, polished motivational letter. You might have to move around paragraphs or sentences until you have the ideal story that compliments your application, so don’t worry if you don’t get it right the first time.

Let’s look at what each motivational letter looks like and includes:

#1. Contact Details

Start by adding all the relevant contact information at the top of your motivational letter.

Here’s what to include:

• Full Name. Place your first and last name at the top of the page.
• Professional Title. Match your professional title to the specific position you're aiming for. E.g.: if you’re applying for a Ph.D., write “Ph.D. candidate”.
• Email Address. Include a professional and straightforward email address. We recommend sticking to something that combines your first and last name.
• Phone Number. Include your phone number and add the dialing code in front if you’re applying overseas.
• Location. Adding your city and state/country is more than enough.
• Relevant Links. Optionally, you can include links to any relevant websites or social media profiles, such as a portfolio, a blog, a LinkedIn profile , etc.

Then, add the contact information of the admissions officer or hiring manager reading your motivational letter, such as:

• Organization’s Name. Start with the name of the organization to which you're sending your application.
• Recipient’s Name. If possible, find the name of the exact person who's going to be viewing your application, such as the hiring manager or the admissions officer for the department you're interested in. Check the organization’s website to get a head start.
• Recipient’s Title. Always address the reader professionally. For example, if they’re a professor or doctor in their field, use the appropriate identifier.
• Location. Provide the exact address of the organization you’re applying to. Include the city, state, country, and street number, and even specify the building if necessary.

#2. Introduction

Begin your motivational letter with a strong introduction.

The first few sentences need to be attention-grabbing – do this through a short, engaging pitch about yourself and why you are applying.

Here’s what you can include:

• A summary of who you are and what you do.
• Details about what you’re applying for and where.
• A prelude to the bulk of your motivational letter.

Remember - this part only needs to include the general reasons behind your application, since you’ll have the opportunity to make a deep dive later on in the body of your motivational letter.

Let’s look at an example of what your introduction could look like:

Dear Dr. Octavio,

My name is Jane Doe, and I would like to express my interest in applying for the Ph.D. Robotics program at Columbia University. I’ve always dreamed of becoming a robotics engineer and contributing to advancement in the field, and I believe that a Ph.D. in Robotics from this university would set me miles ahead of reaching my goal.

The body of your motivational letter is where you get to really sell yourself.

It’s also where the bulk of your text is going to be, so it determines your motivational letter as a whole.

There are two things you should keep in mind when writing this section of your motivational letter: the paragraph structure and the paragraph contents.

Generally, there are two main paragraph-based structures for your motivational letter.

First is the classic, three-main-paragraph structure, where each paragraph accounts for your introduction, body, and conclusion. If you’re using a storytelling approach for your motivational letter, we recommend sticking to this one.

However, if you want to be more factual and to the point, we recommend trying the seven-paragraph structure. It divides the main body of your motivational letter into smaller paragraphs according to your main points, where each discusses a specific achievement, experience, or aspiration.

Use the body of your motivational letter to mention the stories behind your achievements, essential skills , and passion for whatever you’re applying for.

This is the right place to be as detailed and factual as possible. Give concrete examples of what motivated you to apply for this position, and show how that directly relates to what the organization is looking for in a candidate.

Here are some sentences you can paraphrase and use to help you write the body of your motivational letter:

• My passion for [field] started when [experience] . 
• I want to [join this organization] because [ motivation] . 
• I have been part of [relevant organization or field] for [amount of time] . It’s the best thing for me because [reason] .
• I remember once when I [experience] , which made me realize that I [gained interest in the specific field] .
• [Organization or program] resonates with me because [specific reason] .
• What distinguishes me from my peers is [something you’re proud of] .

Let’s look at a brief example of how this is put into practice.

I developed my passion for digital marketing during my internship at XYZ Inc. Working for a small startup allowed me to gain surface-level experience in most digital marketing channels. Now, I would like to deep-dive and gain advanced know-how by attending the Buffalo College Marketing program.

#4. Conclusion

After finishing the body of your motivational letter, it’s time to wrap it up and send it in.

Use this section to briefly summarize your main points and remind the reader why you’d be a great fit for the organization or program you’re interested in.

Then, mention your overarching career goal and how that aligns with their organization’s mission.

Finally, thank the reader for their time and sign off on your motivational letter. Here’s an example:

Therefore, I believe that my strong academic foundation in environmental studies and hands-on fieldwork experience are qualifications that position me to make outstanding contributions to your master's program. I believe that the knowledge I gain in the Sustainability and International Relations program will play a pivotal role in my mission of shaping innovative policies and scientific solutions to combat climate change and protect our planet's biodiversity for future generations.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to join UCLA in the fall semester.

George Maxton

How to Format a Motivational Letter

Always review your motivation letter carefully and stick to any stated requirements or guidelines for your application.

Organizations will sometimes include formatting specifications, like word count or page limits, or even questions they want you to answer in your motivational letter.

If you’re writing a motivational letter for an academic program, you can usually find this information on the admissions requirements webpage or within the provided application materials. 

For job applications, these details are usually listed on the job ad or in the company's job application portal.

Always follow these rules exactly as stated. Going off script could get your application immediately rejected since it shows you’re either not attentive or you’re not taking the opportunity seriously.

If, on the other hand, there aren’t any guidelines for your motivational letter, we recommend you follow these tips:

• Keep your motivational letter one page long.
• Use a clear structure with concise paragraphs to make your letter easy to skim.
• Choose a professional font like Lora or Roboto and make sure it’s sized 11-12 pt.
• Set your page margins to one inch on all sides so your page doesn’t look too cluttered or too empty.
• Include the date you wrote your motivational letter for an extra professional touch.
• Use powerful words and action verbs (“designed” and “conceptualized”) instead of cliched phrases (“helped with” and “managed”).
• Smoothly connect your thoughts through transition words.
• Proofread carefully for any spelling or grammatical errors.
• Include a professional closing line like "Sincerely" at the end of your text.
• Print your motivational letter out and sign it, or send it as a PDF to preserve your formatting.

Motivational Letter Example

Let’s look at an example of a great motivational letter for a Ph.D. program at Harvard University and go through just what this candidate does right:

The candidate’s letter to Harvard University’s Department of Political Science starts by addressing the person in charge of admissions for the Ph.D. program they’re interested in.

The general requirements for the Political Science program are:

• Being research inclined
• Having a demonstrated passion for politics
• Showing above-average performance during undergraduate studies 

The values of the university they’re applying to are integrity, education, respect, and accountability.

The candidate’s motivational letter is neatly divided into a total of five paragraphs, of which three make up the body of the text.

Here’s how they highlight their motivation:

• They know the history of the university and share the same values.
• They’re genuinely excited and passionate about the program and the school.
• They show what their qualifications are and how they’ll be a great fit for the program.
• They explain what they hope to achieve if they get the opportunity to study at Harvard.

Essentially, the candidate has listed all their qualifications through a personal story. After reading this letter, the admissions officer will feel like they know the candidate adequately, especially since they have communicated who they are by highlighting how they match everything the Ph.D. program is looking for in an applicant.

Need more inspiration? Check out our 60+ cover letter examples for different professions.

Key Takeaways

You’ve made it to the end of our guide!

Now, you know everything there is to know about motivational letters. We’re confident you’re a shoo-in for that position you have your sights set on!

But before we go, let’s quickly sum up what we’ve covered so far:

• A motivational letter is a formal document that’s usually required when applying for university admissions, a non-profit organization, or a volunteer position.
• Motivational letters are different from cover letters since they focus more on your interests, passions, and ambitions than on your skills and achievements.
• Generally, there are two ways to structure your motivational letter, depending on whether you want to tell a story or factually go through all the points that make you an ideal candidate.
• The introduction of your motivational letter should be brief and immediately grab the reader’s attention. Use it to tell them who you are and why you’re interested in applying for the specific opportunity.
• Always do your research on the specific program or organization. This can help you show genuine interest and convey your aspirations for the future in this field.
• Make your motivational letter stand out by using one of Novorésumé’s templates and giving the admissions officer or hiring manager a gorgeous first impression.

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Motivation: The Driving Force Behind Our Actions

Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

Amy Morin, LCSW, is a psychotherapist and international bestselling author. Her books, including "13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do," have been translated into more than 40 languages. Her TEDx talk,  "The Secret of Becoming Mentally Strong," is one of the most viewed talks of all time.

Verywell / Emily Roberts 

• Improvement

The term motivation describes why a person does something. It is the driving force behind human actions. Motivation is the process that initiates, guides, and maintains goal-oriented behaviors.

For instance, motivation is what helps you lose extra weight, or pushes you to get that promotion at work. In short, motivation causes you to act in a way that gets you closer to your goals. Motivation includes the biological , emotional , social , and cognitive forces that activate human behavior.

Motivation also involves factors that direct and maintain goal-directed actions. Although, such motives are rarely directly observable. As a result, we must often infer the reasons why people do the things that they do based on observable behaviors.

Learn the types of motivation that exist and how we use them in our everyday lives. And if it feels like you've lost your motivation, do not worry. There are many ways to develop or improve your self-motivation levels.

Press Play for Advice on Motivation

Hosted by therapist Amy Morin, LCSW, this episode of The Verywell Mind Podcast shares an exercise you can use to help you perform your best. Click below to listen now.

Follow Now : Apple Podcasts / Spotify / Google Podcasts

What Are the Types of Motivation?

The two main types of motivation are frequently described as being either extrinsic or intrinsic.

• Extrinsic motivation arises from outside of the individual and often involves external rewards such as trophies, money, social recognition, or praise.
• Intrinsic motivation is internal and arises from within the individual, such as doing a complicated crossword puzzle purely for the gratification of solving a problem.

A Third Type of Motivation?

Some research suggests that there is a third type of motivation: family motivation. An example of this type is going to work when you are not motivated to do so internally (no intrinsic motivation), but because it is a means to support your family financially.

Why Motivation Is Important

Motivation serves as a guiding force for all human behavior. So, understanding how motivation works and the factors that may impact it can be important for several reasons.

Understanding motivation can:

• Increase your efficiency as you work toward your goals
• Drive you to take action
• Encourage you to engage in health-oriented behaviors
• Help you avoid unhealthy or maladaptive behaviors, such as risk-taking and addiction
• Help you feel more in control of your life
• Improve your overall well-being and happiness

Click Play to Learn More About Motivation

This video has been medically reviewed by John C. Umhau, MD, MPH, CPE .

What Are the 3 Components of Motivation?

If you've ever had a goal (like wanting to lose 20 pounds or run a marathon), you probably already know that simply having the desire to accomplish these things is not enough. You must also be able to persist through obstacles and have the endurance to keep going in spite of difficulties faced.

These different elements or components are needed to get and stay motivated. Researchers have identified three major components of motivation: activation, persistence, and intensity.

• Activation is the decision to initiate a behavior. An example of activation would be enrolling in psychology courses in order to earn your degree.
• Persistence is the continued effort toward a goal even though obstacles may exist. An example of persistence would be showing up for your psychology class even though you are tired from staying up late the night before.
• Intensity is the concentration and vigor that goes into pursuing a goal. For example, one student might coast by without much effort (minimal intensity) while another student studies regularly, participates in classroom discussions, and takes advantage of research opportunities outside of class (greater intensity).

The degree of each of these components of motivation can impact whether you achieve your goal. Strong activation, for example, means that you are more likely to start pursuing a goal. Persistence and intensity will determine if you keep working toward that goal and how much effort you devote to reaching it.

Tips for Improving Your Motivation

All people experience fluctuations in their motivation and willpower . Sometimes you feel fired up and highly driven to reach your goals. Other times, you might feel listless or unsure of what you want or how to achieve it.

If you're feeling low on motivation, there are steps you can take to help increase your drive. Some things you can do to develop or improve your motivation include:

• Adjust your goals to focus on things that really matter to you. Focusing on things that are highly important to you will help push you through your challenges more than goals based on things that are low in importance.
• If you're tackling something that feels too big or too overwhelming, break it up into smaller, more manageable steps. Then, set your sights on achieving only the first step. Instead of trying to lose 50 pounds, for example, break this goal down into five-pound increments.
• Improve your confidence . Research suggests that there is a connection between confidence and motivation. So, gaining more confidence in yourself and your skills can impact your ability to achieve your goals.
• Remind yourself about what you've achieved in the past and where your strengths lie. This helps keep self-doubts from limiting your motivation.
• If there are things you feel insecure about, try working on making improvements in those areas so you feel more skilled and capable.

Causes of Low Motivation

There are a few things you should watch for that might hurt or inhibit your motivation levels. These include:

• All-or-nothing thinking : If you think that you must be absolutely perfect when trying to reach your goal or there is no point in trying, one small slip-up or relapse can zap your motivation to keep pushing forward.
• Believing in quick fixes : It's easy to feel unmotivated if you can't reach your goal immediately but reaching goals often takes time.
• Thinking that one size fits all : Just because an approach or method worked for someone else does not mean that it will work for you. If you don't feel motivated to pursue your goals, look for other things that will work better for you.

Motivation and Mental Health

Sometimes a persistent lack of motivation is tied to a mental health condition such as depression . Talk to your doctor if you are feeling symptoms of apathy and low mood that last longer than two weeks.

Theories of Motivation

Throughout history, psychologists have proposed different theories to explain what motivates human behavior. The following are some of the major theories of motivation.

The instinct theory of motivation suggests that behaviors are motivated by instincts, which are fixed and inborn patterns of behavior. Psychologists such as William James, Sigmund Freud , and William McDougal have proposed several basic human drives that motivate behavior. They include biological instincts that are important for an organism's survival—such as fear, cleanliness, and love.

Drives and Needs

Many behaviors such as eating, drinking, and sleeping are motivated by biology. We have a biological need for food, water, and sleep. Therefore, we are motivated to eat, drink, and sleep. The drive reduction theory of motivation suggests that people have these basic biological drives, and our behaviors are motivated by the need to fulfill these drives.

Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs is another motivation theory based on a desire to fulfill basic physiological needs. Once those needs are met, it expands to our other needs, such as those related to safety and security, social needs, self-esteem, and self-actualization.

Arousal Levels

The arousal theory of motivation suggests that people are motivated to engage in behaviors that help them maintain their optimal level of arousal. A person with low arousal needs might pursue relaxing activities such as reading a book, while those with high arousal needs might be motivated to engage in exciting, thrill-seeking behaviors such as motorcycle racing.

The Bottom Line

Psychologists have proposed many different theories of motivation . The reality is that there are numerous different forces that guide and direct our motivations.

Understanding motivation is important in many areas of life beyond psychology, from parenting to the workplace. You may want to set the best goals and establish the right reward systems to motivate others as well as to  increase your own motivation .

Knowledge of motivating factors (and how to manipulate them) is used in marketing and other aspects of industrial psychology. It's an area where there are many myths, and everyone can benefit from knowing what works with motivation and what doesn't.

Nevid JS.  Psychology: Concepts and Applications .

Tranquillo J, Stecker M.  Using intrinsic and extrinsic motivation in continuing professional education .  Surg Neurol Int.  2016;7(Suppl 7):S197-9. doi:10.4103/2152-7806.179231

Menges JI, Tussing DV, Wihler A, Grant AM. When job performance is all relative: How family motivation energizes effort and compensates for intrinsic motivation . Acad Managem J . 2016;60(2):695-719. doi:10.5465/amj.2014.0898

Hockenbury DH, Hockenbury SE. Discovering Psychology .

Zhou Y, Siu AF. Motivational intensity modulates the effects of positive emotions on set shifting after controlling physiological arousal . Scand J Psychol . 2015;56(6):613-21. doi:10.1111/sjop.12247

Mystkowska-Wiertelak A, Pawlak M. Designing a tool for measuring the interrelationships between L2 WTC, confidence, beliefs, motivation, and context . Classroom-Oriented Research . 2016. doi:10.1007/978-3-319-30373-4_2

Myers DG.  Exploring Social Psychology .

Siegling AB, Petrides KV. Drive: Theory and construct validation .  PLoS One . 2016;11(7):e0157295. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0157295

By Kendra Cherry, MSEd Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

How to Get Motivated to Write an Essay: 9 Easy Steps

Writing essays is an essential part of school and college life, but most people dread writing them.

Especially if you’re not a prolific writer, it can be hard to structure them, to put pen to paper, and to get them done efficiently.

Staying focused on homework can be hard enough!

In this guide, I’m giving you my best tips for how to get motivated to write an essay, which assumes that you currently don’t have the motivation now.

Follow these steps to set up each of your essays, and then conquer them one by one.

You’ll find that once you do, you feel more accomplished, more able to stick to a plan, and much more able to stay focused on homework!

Study Tools You Need RIght Now

1. Choose an Enjoyable Topic, if Possible

If you’re going to be motivated to write an essay, the easiest way to do so is by choosing a topic that means something to you.

Sure, some essays already have the topic handed out and in that case, you don’t have much of a choice, but many times you do.

You’ll be confined to a specific area, probably – whether it’s choosing an influential person in history, a book written by a woman, etc.

But within the bounds of what you can choose, make sure to choose something that is meaningful to you and gets you at least somewhat excited to research and explore the topic.

This helps you to feel like you’re motivated to write an essay because you genuinely want to learn more rather than being forced to.

2. Outline the Essay including the Introduction and Conclusion

In this step, you’re going to set up the essay to make it as easy as possible to think about.

This is one of my biggest tips when it comes to sticking to a plan .

This helps get you motivated to write the essay because it makes it seem less daunting.

Most essays have an introduction, a body, and a conclusion.

You need to work out how many body paragraphs you will need based on the points you are going to make in the essay.

Write this outline down to help you with the next step and to see that you can approach the essay by these individual sections rather than feeling like you need to sit down and just write an essay all at once.

3. Chunk the Word Count Down

Once you have your outline down, it’s time to figure out how many words should go in each section.

For instance, if I were doing a 1000 word essay, I would probably do 100 for an introduction, 200 for 4 body paragraphs each and 100 for a conclusion.

However you break it down is up to you and how many words you want the final essay to be.

This seems like extra work up front, but writing an essay that is properly outlined and has word counts attached to it can give you motivation because you see that it is already starting to come together before you even start writing. Suddenly, it seems a lot easier and that’s what encourages us to forge ahead.

4. Break Down the Work Over Multiple Days

As long as you’re not someone who has waited until the last day to write your essay (and if you have then this is not for you), break down the work over multiple days and plan it out so it’s not all on one day.

For instance, if you had 5 days and 5 sections, you could do a section a day, or if you only have 2 days, you could split it up in half.

Use a tool like Click Up or Trello, found in my productivity tools list , to help you plan.

This means you don’t have to work up the motivation to write your essay all at once, but only have to work up the motivation to write a certain number of words, which some people find easier.

5. Organize Your Research and Notes

Figure out where your lack of motivation to write your essay is coming from.

Chances are, the whole thing seems overwhelming and that’s one of the reasons you don’t start.

I always like to organize my research into easy-to-read notes, and many times I’ve used index cards to write down each fact and then you can arrange the index cards into the structure you want your essay to take later on.

You have to first digest the material you have researched in order to put it into an essay, so make sure to do this crucial step in between researching and writing, otherwise you’ll be left with a pile of books with no notes and trying to write the essay from memory of exactly what the quote was about photosynthesis on page 66 on the book with the blue cover.

I know that these steps feel like they’re adding more stress to your essay writing experience, I promise that once you do them you will feel so much more motivated to get it done.

6. Look Up Quotes

Especially if you’re writing for a high school paper, a lot of times it can be a good idea to start with a quote in your introduction.

Regardless, looking for quotes surrounding your topic is a great idea to give yourself some inspiration to write an essay and give you the motivation to start.

Remember that the quote doesn’t always have to exactly be about your topic or have the exact wording of your topic, but maybe it’s from an important person that you’re writing about in your essay or they’re talking about a general concept that you’re including in your essay.

We’ve got some great options to get you started in these quotes on staying focused and these quotes on never giving up .

7. Read Related Essays or Past Essays

It’s unlikely this is your first essay, in which case you should read over your past essays to remind yourself how you structured them and look at examples of when you finished essays, including any feedback that teachers gave you.

You can also read related essays on the subject that you look up online or the teacher hands out from past students, but you need to be very careful to only read this and not make any notes that could lead to you plagiarizing, even on accident.

It may be an idea to read essays in an unrelated topic, just so you can get more ideas for structuring an essay but won’t be in danger of stealing someone else’s words or ideas.

8. Plan Writing Sessions with a Friend

If it’s truly the motivation to write the essay that you struggle with and not the difficulty, team up with a friend and plan writing sessions where you set goals for how far along in your essays you want to be by the end of it.

You shouldn’t share notes to the point that you end up with the same essay, but working across from someone who is also working on the essay can be a huge motivator so you don’t feel left behind.

This also works more broadly if you decide to work in the library where other people are also working on various assignments, as the atmosphere of productivity can be one of the things that encourages you to improve your own productivity even further.

9. Choose a Reward for When You Finish

If getting a good grade on the essay isn’t a good enough motivator, choose a reward for yourself for when you finish the essay to help keep you motivated to study .

It could be a cake that you bake yourself, it could be a friend that you hang out with, it could be a weekend trip you plan.

It could be something small like a television show you watch or, if the essay is part of a longer string of assignments, taking an hour break afterwards.

Whatever it is, push yourself through writing the essay in order to get to the reward at the end.

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Home — Essay Samples — Psychology — Personality Psychology — Motivation

Essays on Motivation

🌟 the importance of writing a motivation essay 📝.

Motivation is like that extra sprinkle of magic dust that gives us the boost we need to achieve our goals and dreams ✨✨. It's the driving force behind our actions and the fuel that keeps us going when things get tough. Writing an essay about motivation allows us to delve deeper into this fascinating topic and explore its various aspects. So, why not grab your pen (or keyboard) and let's dive into the world of motivation! 💪📚

🔍 Choosing the Perfect Motivation Essay Topic 🤔

When it comes to choosing a topic for your motivation essay, there are a few things to consider. First, think about what aspect of motivation you find most intriguing. Is it personal motivation, motivation in the workplace, or maybe the psychology behind motivation? Once you have a general idea, narrow it down further to a specific angle that interests you the most.

💡 Motivation Argumentative Essay 💪📝

An argumentative essay on motivation requires you to take a stance and provide evidence to support your viewpoint. Here are ten exciting topics to get those creative juices flowing:

• The role of intrinsic motivation in academic success
• The impact of extrinsic rewards on employee motivation
• Does social media affect motivation levels in teenagers?
• The connection between motivation and self-esteem
• How does motivation differ between genders?
• The influence of music on motivation levels
• Does money truly motivate people in the workplace?
• The effects of positive reinforcement on motivation
• The link between motivation and mental health
• How does goal-setting impact motivation?

🌪️ Motivation Cause and Effect Essay 📝

In a cause and effect essay, you explore the reasons behind certain motivations and their outcomes. Here are ten thought-provoking topics to consider:

• The causes and effects of procrastination on motivation
• How does a lack of motivation impact academic performance?
• The relationship between motivation and success in sports
• The effects of parental motivation on children's achievements
• How does motivation affect mental well-being?
• The causes and effects of burnout on motivation levels
• The impact of motivation on work-life balance
• How does motivation affect creativity and innovation?
• The causes and effects of peer pressure on motivation
• The relationship between motivation and goal attainment

💬 Motivation Opinion Essay 💭📝

In an opinion essay, you express your personal thoughts and beliefs about motivation. Here are ten intriguing topics to spark your imagination:

• Is self-motivation more effective than external motivation?
• Are rewards a necessary form of motivation?
• Should schools focus more on intrinsic motivation?
• The role of motivation in achieving work-life balance
• Is motivation a learned behavior or innate?
• The impact of motivation on personal growth and development
• Does motivation play a significant role in overcoming obstacles?
• Is fear an effective motivator?
• The role of motivation in maintaining a healthy lifestyle
• Can motivation be sustained in the long term?

📚 Motivation Informative Essay 🧠📝

An informative essay on motivation aims to educate and provide valuable insights. Here are ten fascinating topics to explore:

• The psychology behind motivation and its theories
• How to stay motivated in challenging times
• The impact of motivation on personal and professional success
• Motivation techniques for achieving fitness goals
• The role of motivation in leadership and management
• Motivation in the context of mental health and well-being
• The history of motivation research and key figures
• Motivation strategies for students and educators
• Motivation and its connection to creativity and innovation
• Motivation in different cultural and societal contexts

📜 Thesis Statement Examples 📜

Here are a few thesis statement examples to inspire your motivation essay:

• 1. "Motivation, whether intrinsic or extrinsic, plays a pivotal role in driving individuals towards achieving their goals and aspirations."
• 2. "This essay explores the multifaceted nature of motivation, examining its psychological underpinnings, societal influences, and practical applications."
• 3. "In a world filled with challenges and opportunities, understanding the mechanisms of motivation empowers individuals to overcome obstacles and reach new heights of success."

📝 Introduction Paragraph Examples 📝

Here are some introduction paragraph examples for your motivation essay:

• 1. "Motivation is the driving force behind human actions, the invisible hand that propels us toward our goals. It is the spark that ignites the fire of determination within us, pushing us to overcome obstacles and realize our dreams."
• 2. "In a world where challenges often outnumber opportunities, motivation serves as the compass guiding us through life's intricate maze. It is the unwavering belief in our abilities and the fuel that keeps our ambitions burning bright."
• 3. "Picture a world without motivation—a world where dreams remain unfulfilled, talents remain hidden, and aspirations remain dormant. Fortunately, we do not live in such a world, and this essay delves into the profound impact of motivation on human lives."

🔚 Conclusion Paragraph Examples 📝

Here are some conclusion paragraph examples for your motivation essay:

• 1. "As we conclude this journey through the realm of motivation, let us remember that it is the driving force behind our accomplishments, the cornerstone of our achievements. With unwavering motivation, we can surmount any obstacle and turn our aspirations into reality."
• 2. "In the grand tapestry of human existence, motivation weaves the threads of determination, perseverance, and success. This essay's culmination serves as a testament to the enduring power of motivation and its ability to shape our destinies."
• 3. "As we bid farewell to this exploration of motivation, let us carry forward the knowledge that motivation is not just a concept but a potent force that propels us toward greatness. With motivation as our guide, we can continue to chase our dreams and conquer new horizons."

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Motivation is what explains why people or animals initiate, continue or terminate a certain behavior at a particular time. Motivational states are commonly understood as forces acting within the agent that create a disposition to engage in goal-directed behavior.

There are four main tyoes of motivation: Intrinsic, extrinsic, unconscious, and conscious.

Theories articulating the content of motivation: Maslow's hierarchy of needs, Herzberg's two-factor theory, Alderfer's ERG theory, Self-Determination Theory, Drive theory.

Relevant topics

• Growth Mindset
• Procrastination

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6 Unique Tips for Writing a Brilliant Motivational Essay

Fortunately, in the contemporary world we live in, we can pursue have numerous education paths.

However, choosing college and career path is only half the battle.

The hard part is gaining admissions into the school of your dreams. Make no mistake: this is not an easy task. Most schools require not only outstanding grades, but also a thorough motivational essay explaining your motives for pursuing your chosen major at their institution.

This is the opportunity to stand out and show your character and ability to turn your education into a successful venture.

In the following article, we will give you some writing tips and practical advice on how to write a superb essay for college admissions and earn that acceptance letter.

1. Do your research

One of the most common mistakes people make when writing a motivational essay is creating a template piece for every college they apply to. This is a huge no-no, and here’s why: each academic establishment has its own agenda and preferences.

Some appreciate social initiatives and volunteering experience, some look for passion and determination to succeed, while others pay more attention to grades and test scores.

Try to research your chosen school as much as possible and write a unique essay accordingly. Sometimes colleges provide specific questions they want to see answered in your essay, so be sure to read the instructions carefully. Edit your work so the readers will feel the school’s spirit in your essay. It’s a good start to help your application stand out from the crowd.

2. Be personal

This part may surprise you: you don’t need to be an excellent writer. Sites like EduBirdie might save you some time, but they skip over the real reasons colleges want a motivational letter. Colleges want to get to know you — the person behind the application forms, documents, and numbers.

They want to see what your aspirations are, what you like to do, why you decided to pursue this particular path, and what you consider your strengths to be.

A generic, standard letter with no personality simply won’t. Don’t just repeat your application verbatim — embrace your life and interests and show off the real you! Try to present yourself in an informal way; don’t worry about formalities.

Let the university staff get to see your unique character and way of thinking; perhaps you can include a relevant joke or an anecdote from your life that is connected with your choice of profession, etc.

A strong personal approach goes a very long way here — trust us.

3. Drafts are important

First impressions matters. In the case of college applications, your first impression is in your motivational essay . Of course, you want to give a good first impression. Proper grammar, sentence structure, and punctuation are the key. This is why editing and revising your text is crucial.

Play around with word choice, ensure the paragraphs are clear and concise, and pay close attention to sentence structure. You can even use an Online Word Counter Tool to help you size up your draft properly.

Online programs like Grammarly are great for checking spelling and other possible issues in your writing. If the admission committee reads an essay with a clear sense of purpose, excellent grammar, and determination, they will see the applicant as a good fit because they understand the applicant’s goals and abilities. Don’t underestimate the power of proper styling and grammar.

4. Survey your essay

This may seem like an odd tip, but it can help with your essay quite a lot. If you’re unsure about the motivational essay you’ve written, or maybe you’re looking for ways to make it more memorable, try creating an online survey. You can put it out to the masses on social media, or even ask a few close friends to take a read and give you their thoughts.

Ask their opinion on your writing: what points are the strongest, what areas did you struggle, and how could you improve. This will provide you with real feedback to identify any issues you may have overlooked.

5. Get to the point

It may seem alluring to include every seemingly-relevant detail in your motivational essay. However, this can make the whole piece come across as vague and all over the place. Pick a couple of routes to follow, assess your best qualities, and decide what areas of your life and background you wish to include.

Don’t try to cram in every idea that crosses your mind; this will only clutter your essay! One good suggestion is to ask your friends and family to list your best characteristics, skills, and talents, then pick a few of most common to include in your essay.

6.Professional goals matter

While showing personality in your essay is essential, don’t forget to talk about your professional goals. Clearly state your motivation for choosing this career path and why you’re most suited for it. Explain why you are the best candidate for the program. Don’t overdo it by showing off or praising yourself too much.

Instead, talk about what personality traits will help you success, and where you plan on going with the degree you earn.

Remember, balance is the key to a good motivational essay; putting less information than needed is just as bad as putting too much. Getting too personal and informal will harm your application,but so will being too bland and official.

The secret is to maintain balance, and include only the points that matter. The most important advice is be yourself and be inspired.

For more great college tips, check out the other blogs on College Basics.

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6 Contoh Motivation Letter dan Cara Membuatnya dengan Mudah

Pengertian motivation letter, contohnya, dan cara membuatnya sesuai kebutuhan dengan isi yang menarik perhatian rekruter.

Motivation Letter – Saat proses rekrutmen ke dalam sebuah program atau instansi, tak jarang perusahaan meminta motivation letter dari para pelamar, selain CV dan portofolio. Kamu harus mengetahui struktur dan cara membuat motivation letter agar bisa mem- branding diri dengan baik dengan isi yang menarik. Lalu apakah motivation letter?

Motivation letter merupakan sebuah dokumen yang berisi rincian kemampuan profesional yang dilengkapi dengan alasan melamar pekerjaan, beasiswa, atau sebuah organisasi. Dalam surat ini, kamu perlu meyakinkan para rekruter bahwa kamu cocok untuk menduduki posisi tersebut.

Untuk kamu yang masih bingung, tak perlu khawatir Toppers. Berikut ini contoh motivation letter lengkap dengan cara membuatnya. Dijamin menarik perhatian rekruter!

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Contoh Motivation Letter

Tak hanya saat mendaftar beasiswa, banyak instansi tertentu yang meminta sebuah motivation letter kepada para pelamar magang, pekerjaan, bahkan masuk ke dalam sebuah organisasi. 

Cara membuatnya cukup mudah Toppers, sebagai gambaran kamu bisa melihat dan mengikuti contoh-contoh berikut ini:

1. Contoh Motivation Letter Magang

Sebelum menulis motivation letter magang, kamu perlu mencari informasi terkait perusahaan yang ingin kamu lamar. Untuk menjadi kandidat yang tepat, tulis pengalaman dan gambaran dirimu apa adanya. Tak lupa, tulis juga alasan kamu memilih perusahaan tersebut dan mengapa kamu pantas untuk magang di perusahaan tersebut.

2. Contoh Motivation Letter Beasiswa

Sebuah motivation letter erat kaitannya dengan pendaftaran beasiswa. Surat ini akan dinilai oleh universitas yang akan menyeleksi beasiswa dengan mengetahui kepribadianmu lewat 500 kata yang kamu tulis.

Buat esai yang kuat dan menarik secara jujur tanpa ada hal yang dilebih-lebihkan. Pilih pengalaman dan cerita terbaik dirimu yang akan dicantumkan yang menjadi nilai lebih dari dirimu.

3. Contoh Motivation Letter Seleksi

Proses seleksi seringkali membutuhkan persiapan yang matang. Bagaimana tidak, kamu akan bersaing dengan orang lain yang memperebutkan posisi yang kamu lamar. Salah satu syarat yang biasanya diminta rekruter adalah motivation letter.

Rekruter akan melihat seberapa kuat dan kemampuan dan motivasi pelamar untuk bergabung ke dalam program tersebut.  Kamu harus menulisnya secara utuh dan apa adanya.

4. Contoh Motivation Letter Melamar Kerja

Selain CV dan portofolio, perusahaan juga meminta motivation letter dari pelamar. Dalam esai ini kamu wajib mendeskripsikan diri, pengalaman, kemampuan, dan alasan kamu tertarik dengan posisi yang dilamar. 

Tak lupa tambahkan juga mengapa kamu mendaftar ke perusahaan tersebut. Bahasa yang digunakan harus kuat dan tidak bertele-tele.

5. Contoh Motivation Letter Organisasi

Sebuah organisasi kerap kali memberikan syarat tertentu saat ingin merekrut anggota, salah satunya adalah motivation letter. Esai ini akan menjadi bahan pertimbagan terkait dengan kemampuan dan kompetensi calon anggota organisasi. Kamu juga harus menulis alasan kamu tertarik dengan organisasi tersebut.

6. Contoh Motivation Letter Volunteer

Seorang sukarelawan atau volunteer bertugas untuk membantu event besar atau sebuah program. Dalam menerima seorang volunteer, rekruter akan mempertimbangkan beberapa hal yang cocok dengan program tersebut. Usahakan untuk mendaftar sebuah program yang kamu sukai.

Cara Membuat Motivation Letter

Setelah melihat contoh motivation letter sesuai dengan kebutuhan untuk mendaftar beasiswa, magang, atau yang lainnya, kini kamu bisa membuat motivation letter sendiri. Agar terlihat lebih baik, ikuti cara membuat motivation letter berikut ini yang menarik perhatian rekruter:

1. Buat outline

Langkah pertama saat ingin membuat motivation letter adalah menulis outline atau garis besar sebagai acuan dalam motivation letter yang akan kamu buat .

Dengan membuat sebuah outline, kamu bisa mengecek bagian yang akan kamu tulis di suratnya agar nantinya terlihat rapi dan berurutan. 

Ada beberapa hal yang ada di dalam outline, yaitu alasan kamu mendaftar program tersebut, kemampuan yang dimiliki, dan tujuan yang ingin dicapai saat mengikuti program.

Kamu juga bisa menuliskan poin lain yang akan disampaikan dan contoh kata-kata yang ingin dibuat dalam motivation letter.

2. Pembukaan yang Menarik

Setelah membuat garis besar, sekarang saatnya kamu menulis motivation letter yang sebenarnya. Buat pembukaan surat menarik namun tidak berlebihan dengan memperkenalkan diri, asal kampus, dan aktivitas saat ini.

Ceritakan sedikit tentang dirimu dan pencapaian yang pernah kamu raih agar pembaca tertarik dengan motivation letter yang kamu buat. Inti dari pembukaan ini adalah perkenalan diri dan juga pengalamanmu selama ini.

3. Isi Motivation Letter

Lanjut ke bagian isi, kamu harus mengembangkan poin-poin yang sudah kamu buat di outline. Buat dirimu terlihat menarik dengan beberapa poin penting yang sudah dibuat dalam garis besar. 

Tulis beberapa paragraf sesuai dengan alasan dan tujuanmu mendaftar program tersebut, usahakan tiap paragraf memiliki kalimat yang efektif agar mudah dipahami oleh pembaca letter.

4. Tutup dengan Kesimpulan

Pada bagian penutup yakinkan recruiter bahwa kamu adalah kandidat yang tepat untuk dipilih. Tulis penutup dengan kesimpulan dan harapanmu secara singkat dan jelas. 

Selain itu, kamu juga harus mengucap terima kasih karena menjadi salah satu kandidat yang dipertimbangkan. Kamu bisa mencantumkan kontak informasi di bagian bawah surat agar recruiter mudah untuk menghubungimu.

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Nah, itu dia Toppers pengertian motivation letter , cara membuat, dan beberapa contohnya sesuai dengan kebutuhanmu. Dijamin para rekruter langsung tertarik! Secara garis besar, kamu harus membuat kalimat yang menarik dan efektif agar mudah dipahami. Kemampuan yang ditulis harus jujur dan apa adanya sesuai dengan skill yang dimiliki.

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• What Is Motivation, and Where Does It Come From? What Is Motivation, and Where Does It Come From?
• How Does Motivation Work? How Does Motivation Work?
• What Is the Scope of Motivation? What Is the Scope of Motivation?

Motivation Essay for Students and Children

500+ words essay on motivation.

Everyone suggests other than the person lack motivation, or directly suggests the person remain motivated. But, no one ever tells what is the motivation of how one can stay motivated. Motivation means to face the obstacle and find an inspiration that helps you to go through tough times. In addition, it helps you to move further in life.

Meaning of Motivation

Motivation is something that cannot be understood with words but with practice. It means to be moved by something so strongly that it becomes an inspiration for you. Furthermore, it is a discipline that helps you to achieve your life goals and also helps to be successful in life .

Besides, it the most common practice that everyone does whether it is your boss in office or a school teacher or a university professor everyone motivates others in a way or other.

Role of Motivation

It is a strong tool that helps to get ahead in life. For being motivated we need a driving tool or goal that keeps us motivated and moves forward. Also, it helps in being progressive both physically and mentally.

Moreover, your goal does not be to big and long term they can be small and empowering. Furthermore, you need the right mindset to be motivated.

Besides, you need to push your self towards your goal no one other than you can push your limit. Also, you should be willing to leave your comfort zone because your true potential is going to revel when you leave your comfort zone.

Types of Motivation

Although there are various types of motivation according to me there are generally two types of motivation that are self- motivation and motivation by others.

Self-motivation- It refers to the power of someone to stay motivated without the influence of other situations and people. Furthermore, self-motivated people always find a way to reason and strength to complete a task. Also, they do not need other people to encourage them to perform a challenging task.

Motivation by others- This motivation requires help from others as the person is not able to maintain a self-motivated state. In this, a person requires encouragement from others. Also, he needs to listen to motivational speeches, a strong goal and most importantly and inspiration.

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Importance of Motivation

Motivation is very important for the overall development of the personality and mind of the people. It also puts a person in action and in a competitive state. Furthermore, it improves efficiency and desire to achieve the goal. It leads to stability and improvement in work.

Above all, it satisfies a person’s needs and to achieve his/her goal. It helps the person to fight his negative attitude. The person also tries to come out of his/her comfort zone so that she/ he can achieve the goal.

To conclude, motivation is one of the key elements that help a person to be successful. A motivated person tries to push his limits and always tries to improve his performance day by day. Also, the person always gives her/his best no matter what the task is. Besides, the person always tries to remain progressive and dedicated to her/his goals.

FAQs about Motivation Essay

Q.1 Define what is motivation fit. A.1 This refers to a psychological phenomenon in which a person assumes or expects something from the job or life but gets different results other than his expectations. In a profession, it is a primary criterion for determining if the person will stay or leave the job.

Q.2 List some best motivators. A.2 some of the best motivators are:

• Inspiration
• Fear of failure
• Power of Rejection
• Don’t pity your self
• Be assertive
• Stay among positive and motivated people
• Be calm and visionary

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The Behavioral Neuroscience of Motivation: An Overview of Concepts, Measures, and Translational Applications

Eleanor h. simpson.

Department of Psychiatry, New York State Psychiatric Institute, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA

Peter D. Balsam

Department of Psychiatry, New York State Psychiatric Institute, Psychology Departments of Barnard College and Columbia University, New York, NY, USA

Motivation, defined as the energizing of behavior in pursuit of a goal, is a fundamental element of our interaction with the world and with each other. All animals share motivation to obtain their basic needs, including food, water, sex and social interaction. Meeting these needs is a requirement for survival, but in all cases the goals must be met in appropriate quantities and at appropriate times. Therefore motivational drive must be modulated as a function of both internal states as well as external environmental conditions. The regulation of motivated behaviors is achieved by the coordinated action of molecules (peptides, hormones, neurotransmitters etc), acting within specific circuits that integrate multiple signals in order for complex decisions to be made. In the past few decades, there has been a great deal of research on the biology and psychology of motivation. This work includes the investigation of specific aspects of motived behavior using multiple levels of analyses, which allows for the identification of the underpinning neurobiological mechanisms that support relevant psychological processes. In this chapter we provide an overview to the volume “The Behavioural Neuroscience of Motivation”. The volume includes succinct summaries of; The neurobiology of components of healthy motivational drive, neural measures and correlates of motivation in humans and other animals as well as information on disorders in which abnormal motivation plays a major role. Deficits in motivation occur in a number of psychiatric disorders, affecting a large population, and severe disturbance of motivation can be devastating. Therefore, we also include a section on the development of treatments for disorders of motivation. It is hoped that the collection of reviews in the volume will expose scientists to a breadth of ideas from several different subdisciplines, thereby inspiring new directions of research that may increase our understanding of motivational regulation and bring us closer to effective treatments for disorders of motivation.

1 Why Motivation Is Important to Understand

Understanding what drives motivated behavior in humans is a truly fascinating endeavor. But as important as our curiosity for knowing what drives us as individuals, and what supports individual differences in levels of motivation among our friends and colleagues, is the critical question; why do motivational processes get disrupted when the clinical and personal consequences can be so devastating? As we will see across this volume, motivated behaviors involve biological and psychological processes that have undergone evolution at numerous levels, from individual molecules all the way to species-specific social organization. While motivational processes represent heritable traits of fitness, humans suffer from a number of disorders of motivation that can be organized into two distinct categories. The first category is composed of the apathy and pathological deficits in motivation commonly seen in patients with schizophrenia and affective disorders. The second category involves problematic excesses in behavior including addictions, the pathological misdirection of motivation. Developing treatments for disorders of motivation requires a detailed understanding of how motivated behavior occurs, how it is dynamically regulated under normal conditions, and how it is disrupted in disease. This volume provides reviews of recent research in each of these areas.

2 What We Mean by the Word Motivation

The concept of motivation is a useful summary concept for how an individual’s past history and current state interact to modulate goal-directed activity. In this book, the authors examine the motivation to pursue many different goals. One general aspect of motivated behaviors is that they lead to a goal and obtaining the goal is rewarding. Thus, motivation, defined as the energizing of behavior in pursuit of a goal, is a fundamental property of all deliberative behaviors. One of the earliest psychological theories of motivation, Hull’s drive theory, posited that behaviors occur to reduce biological needs, thereby optimizing the organism’s potential for survival ( Hull 1943 ). However in Hull’s theory, motivational drive functioned solely to energize responding, drive was not responsible for initiating, or maintaining the direction of action. Later, motivation was conceptualized to consist of both a goal-directed, directional component and an arousal, activational component ( Duffy 1957 ; Hebb 1955 ). This is the framework of motivation still in use, such that if motivation were a vector—its length would represent the amplitude, or intensity of pursuit, and the angle of the vector would represent its focus on a specific goal. In this analogy, a motivation vector affected by apathy might have a reduced length in all directions and a motivation vector affected by addiction might have an increased length and a less flexible direction. The chapters in this volume explicitly acknowledge that motivation affects which responses occur as well as the vigor of those responses. It appears that we are just beginning to understand that these two aspects of motivation have both common and distinctive neural underpinnings. For example, circadian factors may energize the general motive of seeking food or mate (Antle and Silver, this volume), but the specific actions that occur in pursuit of these goals are regulated by different substrates (see Caldwell and Alders, Woods and Begg, Magarinos and Pfaff, all in this volume). Similarly, local cues that signal food availability may energize many food seeking actions, signals for specific foods differentially energize actions associated with obtaining the specific outcome. Again, the neural substrates of the general and specific effects are somewhat distinctive. At each level, whole classes of specific actions are made more or less likely by these factors ( Neuringer and Jensen 2010 ). We suggest that there is generally a hierarchical structure to motivation in the sense that general arousal factors such as sleep–wake cycles will affect many different motives, that activation of specific motives (e.g., hunger, thirst, social motives) can activate many specific actions that could lead to many specific outcomes within a general class of goals, and that more temporally and situationally specific factors determine the specific actions that occur in pursuit of that goal ( Timberlake 2001 ). With this in mind, it is clear that disruptions in motivation can occur at multiple levels of control which suggests there may be multiple interacting ways to attempt to treat disruptions.

3 A Simplified Overview of How Motivation Might Work in the Brain

Many different factors influence motivation, including the organism’s internal physiological states, the current environmental conditions, as well as the organism’s past history and experiences. In order for all these factors to influence motivation, information about them must be processed in a number of ways; it must be evaluated and encoded, and unless the motives are novel, the valuation and encoding will be affected by learning and retrieval processes. A simplified overview of how such diversity of information must be processed and integrated to result in motivation (both response selection and action vigor) is shown in Fig. 1 . Here, we organize the problem into a single, highest order concept that motivated behaviors represent the actions associated with the highest net value that results from a cost–benefit analysis that encompasses all of the potential influencing factors and processes.

A simplified diagram of the influencing factors and processes that are involved in motivation. This framework of motivation places cost–benefit analysis central to the concept of motivation. Three major categories of factors are known to influence motivation: the individual’s physiological state, the environment, and the individual’s past history. Information about all 3 categories of factors will be subject to a number of processes (represented inside the blue oval), including evaluation and encoding. In almost all circumstances, the motive, environment, and physiological state will not be novel; therefore, information will also undergo learning and retrieval processes. All of the combined processes result in weighting of all the costs and benefits related to the motive, and the output of the cost–benefit calculation will impact upon the direction and vigor of action that the individual takes toward the motive goal

4 Cost–Benefit Computation as the Arbiter of Motivated Behavior

The costs associated with behavioral action may include physical effort, mental effort, time, loss of potential opportunities, discomfort, and danger (the risk of pain and potential death). The benefits associated with behavioral action might include fulfilling physiological and psychological needs, obtaining reinforcement secondary to those needs, escaping from harm, or avoidance of some of the costs listed above. As mentioned above, information entering the cost–benefit computation for any specific motive will be processed in several ways. The value of every cost and every benefit must be calculated and encoded. The concept of encoding value and experimental methods for measuring encoded value are discussed in detail by Redish et al., in this volume. It is important to consider that value must be encoded when a goal is obtained and then stored for future retrieval when obtaining that goal again becomes relevant. When that happens in the current moment, the assessment of value must be conditioned both on this past experience as well as the current state and environmental conditions. Goals are likely to be obtained with some temporal distance from the initiation, or even conclusion of behavioral output. Single neuron activity in several brain regions including orbitofrontal cortex, anterior cingulate, and basolateral amygdala has been shown to correlate with reward prediction and this work is reviewed by Bissonette and Roesch in this volume. The encoded values of costs and benefits do not belong in absolute scales because the values of all costs and benefits are rendered relative to the animal’s current physiological state as well as the current conditions of the surrounding environment.

Much has been learned about the role of dopamine in reinforcement learning, and its impact on motivated behavior from experimental manipulations of the dopamine system in rodents. This work is comprehensively reviewed by Salamone et al. in this volume. In addition to learning about the costs and benefits of a particular action, subjects also learn about specific signals that are associated with obtaining particular goals. Such signals can have an enormous influence on motivated behavior, and several chapters in this volume provide details of when and how environmental cues can influence response selection and response activation. These include Corbit and Balleine’s chapter on learning and motivational processes contributing to Pavlovian–instrumental transfer and John O’Doherty’s chapter on the neural substrates of motivational control in humans. Cue learning is also discussed in the context of motivational disorder, in the chapters by Meyer et al. and Barrus et al., that deal with substance abuse disorders and gambling.

Another aspect of the computation that energizes specific action has to do with signals that a particular goal is currently available. These signals occur on multiple timescales. Specific times of day can become associated with the opportunity to obtain specific goals, and discrete cues can signal the opportunity to achieve a goal as well as what specific ways there are to achieve it. For example, when meals occur at a regular time of day, there are behavioral, hormonal, and neural changes that occur in anticipation of a meal time that give rise to the motivation to seek food (Antle and Silver, in this volume). Encountering a restaurant can activate the specific behavioral sequences that lead to the ordering of food and the specific foods themselves can activate specific consummatory responses. All along this sequence of temporally organized behavior, there are concomitant changes in hormonal and neural states that energize and guide action (Woods and Begg in this volume).

After effective encoding of all the relevant costs and benefits, a computational process (the cost–benefit computation) is required to resolve the appropriate direction and vigor of action to be taken. This complex interplay of factors and processes is schematized in Fig. 1 .

How conceptually the cost–benefit computation is made is currently unclear. It is still unknown whether the value of costs and benefits are calculated on the same scale or not, whether their weights are integrated or subtracted such that, for example, the amount of predicted effort reduces the value of the predicted reward. Or perhaps, there is a circuit component that acts as a comparator of these two component values. An additional complication is that for any given motive, there are often multiple types of costs and potentially multiple types of benefits involved because many different types of control systems and circuits are at play (e.g., neuroendocrine, circadian, Pavlovian). This leads to the question of how so much diversity of information can all be used to make an appropriate response selection and determine action vigor. Do all factors enter into a singular, highly complex equation, as our simplified diagram ( Fig. 1 ) may seem to imply? Or do some systems continually run in parallel, with behavioral output as the result of a hierarchical switching from one system to another? Or perhaps there is fluctuation in the degree to which different factors influence the computation, e.g., the relative weights of physical and mental costs depend on the energy state of the organism.

Furthermore, it is possible that these alternative regulatory schemes are not mutually exclusive. For a detailed discussion on the potential mechanisms by which multiple deliberative processes that are running in parallel may each influence motivation (see Redish et al. in this volume). In the case of appetitive conditioning, there is evidence to suggest that animals can rapidly switch between responding that is driven by two different control systems, goal directed or habitual ( Gremel and Costa 2013 ). Audiovisual cues can trigger the rapid switching, implying that these two alternate circuits are constantly online and available in parallel. On the other hand, instead of a multi-tiered, hierarchical, or switching system, other work suggests that all information enters a singular computation process, and the output of this meta-computation is what drives motivation. This concept is favored by Magarinos and Pfaff (this volume) whose work on the sexual motivation of female rodents may suggest that for this specific motive, at least some factors may be integrated into a single decision-making process.

Above we have described the complex situation of many different factors influencing a single motive. It must also be recognized that at any given time, there may be competition for multiple goals and that imbalances in the strength of the motivations for each goal can cause conflict and dysfunctional behavior. The chapter by Cornwell et al. describes how human well-being depends not only on satisfying specific motives, but also on ensuring that motives work together such that no individual motive is too weak or too strong. It is becoming clear that different motivational systems have control elements that are unique to each system but that there may also be common substrates, perhaps close to the final steps that determine behavioral output. This is well illustrated in the chapter on defensive motivation by Campese et al. and in the chapter on social motivation by Caldwell and Alders. Again, the neurobiological mechanism whereby different motive systems interact is an important but not yet well-understood problem. Of particular interest will be to understand how defensive motivations interact with appetitive ones. The vast majority of modern work on motivation concerns itself with the mechanisms of appetitive motivation. Campese et al. show how to leverage what is now known about fear learning to understand the neurobiological mechanisms of defensive motivations. In a similar vein, Cornwell et al. argue for the importance of understanding how promotion/prevention motives in humans is an important modulator of other motives. Hopefully, the future will include a greater focus on understanding defensive motivations.

5 Research Approaches to Understanding Motivation

To increase our understanding of motivation in the brain, there are numerous approaches that can be taken. In this volume, many different academic approaches are represented as the research reviewed includes clinical, experimental, and comparative psychology; and several neuroscience subfields including, cognitive, molecular, cellular, behavioral, and systems neuroscience. This means that specific questions or single hypotheses can be, and often are being, approached at multiple levels of analysis. Indeed, it is when research programs combine a number of techniques, or use information derived from a few different techniques to propose (and test) new hypotheses that the most compelling results are obtained. For example, the work described by O’Doherty in this volume includes the use of human fMRI studies to investigate potential action-value signals that have been proposed from rat electrophysiological recordings. The research described by Redish et al. considers computational models of decision making and tests these models by measuring neuronal activity during deliberative behavior. In the chapter by Ward, the approach to testing motivational deficits in mice has very much been informed by the data from molecular and clinical studies in humans. By phenocopying in mice the molecular changes that have been detected in patients using PET imaging techniques, the behavioral consequences can be probed under well-controlled conditions. In a similarly translational manner, the research described by Robinson et al. in this volume applies electrophysiological and optogenetic techniques in rodents to probe behaviors that are altered in people with addictions. In the chapter by Barrus et al., the authors discuss the development of rodent paradigms designed to test various psychological theories of substance use and gambling disorders.

6 Organismal Level Biology Is Critical to Understanding Motivation

When multiple levels of analyses are used to investigate motivational processes, a critically important concept becomes apparent. While the evolution of traits that support motivation occurs at the level of molecules, proteins, cells, and circuits, it is the entire organism, and its interaction with the environment that is selected. An example of this concept is easily seen in the research on circadian modulation of motivation (Antle and Silver) and in the work on motivation for eating (Woods and Begg). For example, in the case of feeding we know many of the molecules and circuits involved in both the intrinsic, homeostatic factors which drive the motivational to eat, such as hormones and peptides, and we also know the neuromodulators and circuits that are responsible for some of the extrinsic/environmental influences on eating such as predictive cues. We are beginning to understand how these signals are integrated in order for decisions to be made and behavioral responses to occur; though as described above, understanding the mechanism of integration is currently a critical area of research.

7 Motivation Gone Wrong

Patients with many different psychiatric diagnoses may experience deficits in motivation, including depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and anxiety disorders. In this volume, we focus on the neurobiology of motivational deficits in depression and schizophrenia primarily because these are the two illnesses in which pathological deficits in motivation play a major role in patient functioning and clinical outcome ( Barch et al. 2014 ; Strauss et al. 2013 ). As such, far more research has been done on motivation in depression and schizophrenia than any other illness. In the last few decades, it has been recognized that the motivational deficits in Schizophrenia and depression share similarities, but also distinct differences. These differences occur because as mentioned above, there are many components involved in motivated behavior and each of them represent potential vulnerabilities that may be involved in different pathophysiological mechanisms. An excellent review of the similarities and differences in mechanisms underlying motivational deficits in depression and schizophrenia is provided by Barch et al. in this volume. The central difference in these types of pathologies is that many depressed patients suffer from impairments of in-the-moment hedonic reaction. Such anhedonia can diminish an individual’s capacity for anticipation, learning, and effort. In contrast, patients with schizophrenia demonstrate relatively intact in-the-moment hedonic processing. Instead, patients suffer impairments in other components involved in translating reward experience to anticipation and action selection.

There are also separate chapters that go into more specific detail for each of these pathophysiological conditions. An update on candidate pathomechanisms for motivational deficits in depression is provided by Treadway’s chapter. This volume devotes two chapters to the topic of motivation deficit in schizophrenia because this area of research has been more active than it has been in depression. This is likely because antipsychotic medications that successfully ameliorate the positive symptoms of schizophrenia (delusions, hallucinations, etc.) have been available for some time, leaving patients with the residual negative symptoms, of which a motivation is the primary driver of poor outcome and low quality of life ( Kiang et al. 2003 ).

Current concepts of motivation deficits and how motivation is assessed in patients with schizophrenia is reviewed by Reddy et al. Waltz and Gold extend these concepts into the exploration of the relationship between a motivation and the representation of expected value. The clinical research reviewed in the chapters that deal with apathy and motivation in humans is complimented by a chapter on methods for dissecting motivation and related psychological processes in rodents (Ward). Research using animal models is critical for several obvious reasons, including the availability of genetic manipulations, molecular modifications as well as invasive in vivo monitoring procedures that are not possible in human subjects. What hasn’t previously been obvious is how well we can use such animal models to investigate the various components of motivation that are particularly relevant to human disease. Ward describes such procedures and explains how best to leverage our current clinical knowledge using state-of-the-art mouse models.

On the flip side of apathy may be when motivation for a specific goal can come to dominate action in maladaptive ways as appears to be the case in addictions. Excessive behavior for many types of rewards including drugs, food, gambling, and sex can be problematic. In addiction, rapid and strong learning about what leads to reward, excesses in experiencing the hedonic value of rewards, exaggeration in representing those values, and dominance in being guided by those representations can all lead to significant narrowing in the diversity of motives. Several theories exist that attempt to explain the process of addiction in terms of disruption of motivational processes. Each theory differs in the emphasis on which specific aspects of motivation are primarily affected. The chapters by both Meyer et al. and Robinson et al. describe the motivational processes underlying substance abuse disorder. The chapter by Barrus et al. extends this discussion into the field of gambling. Barrus et al. suggest that many of the processes affected in gambling are the same as those affected in drug addiction, and therefore, the paradigms that have been successfully used to study drug addiction in animal models can be successfully modified to identify neurobiological mechanisms related to gambling. The central hypothesis in these analyses of addictions of drugs and gambling (as well as addiction to food and other things) is that an aberration in reward processing and/or in the control by cues associated with these rewards underlies the problematic nature of addictive behavior and its resistance to change.

8 Treatments

Given the modern emphasis on reward processes as a fundamental component of motivation, it is encouraging that modern cognitive/behavioral approaches to treating motivational disturbances focus on creating reward contingencies that modify deficits or excesses in behavior. Saperstein and Medalia describe how in schizophrenia patients motivation enhancing techniques are critical to treatment-related improvements within cognitive remediation therapy. In the case of addictions, Walter and Petry provide an overview of research indicating that contingency management is a demonstrably effective psychosocial treatment for substance use disorders. The central concept of contingency management is that extrinsic motivators are used to change patients’ behaviors. Specifically, reinforcement is provided when patients demonstrate abstinence. In the descriptions of both treatment approaches, the chapters consider the important role that intrinsic motivation may play in clinical success.

We are hopeful that the great progress in understanding the neurobiology of motivation described in this book will influence new ideas that will lead to novel pharmacological, physiological and psychological/psychosocial approaches to treatments for disorders of motivation. The identification of novel pharmacological treatments is dependent on the ability of preclinical researchers to investigate potential targets and screen potential candidate compounds using truly meaningful endophenotypic assays. The chapters in this volume that describe clinical studies of patient with disorders of motivation describe how motivation has been dissected into a number of component processes and the specific processes that are selectively disrupted in disease have been identified (Reddy et al., Barch et al., Waltz and Gold). To identify drugs that will be effective for disorders of motivation, preclinical assays must focus on the same specific processes affected in humans (see Ward in this volume). A recent example of the development of the kind of research tools that are needed for the purpose of investigating potential treatment targets is the strategy of dissecting goal-directed action from arousal by modifying previously existing rodent behavioral tasks ( Bailey et al. 2015a ). These new tools can then be used to assay specific effects of drugs that affect novel treatment targets ( Simpson et al. 2011 ) and Bailey et al. (2015b) . This novel approach was directly inspired by the literature on the selectivity of processes disrupted in humans with disorders of motivation.

In addition to pharmacological treatments, there is also the possibility that electrophysiological treatments for disorders of motivation may be developed. Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is currently used to treat a number of neurological and psychiatric conditions ( Kocabicak et al. 2015 ; Kringelbach et al. 2007 ; Udupa and Chen 2015 ). DBS has been used to treat essential tremor, Parkinson’s disease, treatment refractory major depression, severe obsessive–compulsive disorder, and chronic pain for several years. Several other applications are in experimental stages, including clinical trials for pervasive addiction and symptoms of schizophrenia. Such an invasive procedure requires many successive small-scale clinical trials before optimal procedures can be successfully developed. A significantly less invasive procedure used to modulate brain activity is transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). While the mechanism(s) by which TMS alters neuronal function and network activity is not understood, due to its noninvasiveness, hundreds of clinical trials have been conducted for a long list of neuropsychiatric conditions, including schizophrenia, and craving/addiction. A comprehensive review of studies of repetitive TMS has recently been published ( Lefaucheur et al. 2014 ).

Lastly, we are also hopeful that the emerging understanding that there are multiple systems driving motivation on an organismal level will lead to the development of treatment schemes that are more comprehensive than those that have been developed in the past. It may be that subtle adjustments in several of the factors that are involved in disorders of motivation (the endocrine system, circadian system, neurotransmitter function, etc.) can result in greater improvements and less side effects than treatments that focus on a single system.

Contributor Information

Eleanor H. Simpson, Department of Psychiatry, New York State Psychiatric Institute, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.

Peter D. Balsam, Department of Psychiatry, New York State Psychiatric Institute, Psychology Departments of Barnard College and Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.

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