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Behavioral Theory focuses on the idea that a person's motivation is related to the consequences of one's actions, or behaviors. In other words, that good behavior can be reinforced by positive consequences and bad behavior can be deterred through negative consequences. The primary force behind this theory was Burrhus Frederic Skinner, a man who studied observable human behaviors.

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Cognitive Theory suggests that our previous experiences in life affect our reaction to events in our present. This theory also indicates that due to our experiences in life being continuously growing, our reactions and responses to stimuli will also be evolving and changing. The framework we develop to interpret the world around us is referred to as a schema. Jean Piaget is the main pioneer that has done many studies on this theory.

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Social Theory focuses on 4 main components: Attention, Retention, Reproduction & Motivation. This theory essentially describes that a person can simply observe a behavior or action, and acquire the skill or knowledge to do so themselves. Albert Bandura is responsible for developing this theory following the study of behavioral theory. Social Theory also says that because we as humans are social beings, our motivation to do certain behaviors or learn things is heavily influenced by our social relationships.

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Humanistic Theory assumes that everyone is unique, and has the motivation or desire to achieve their potential. Abrahm Maslow first coined the term and discerned that human motivation lies within the hierarchy of needs. Those needs vary from physiological to psychological and can be simple or basic to more complicated needs. The 4 components of this theory include: Free Will, Uniqueness, Basic and Complex Needs & Motivation to Achieve Potential. Essentially the simplified concept of this is that if you're basic needs are met, you have more room for motivation for non-essential tasks.

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So I know we are supposed to pick just one of these that are most applicable to ourselves, but I have to say I struggle with motivation in some ways and I find myself identifying with all of these in some ways. Depending on the scenario, I could see any of these being good at motivating me. For example, when it comes to school and work and school, I find Social & Behavioral Theories are the most applicable. I thrive off of positive recognition from my peers or instructors and I also feel I learn the best from them as well. When it comes to personal decisions like relationships, I feel like Cognitive Theory is very much the most applicable. I rely heavily on my past experiences to try to make the right choices for myself.

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Technique 1: Break down tasks.

By breaking down tasks into smaller more manageable steps, taking on a project can become much more manageable and progress can be more easily measured. I use this technique all the time! Sometimes even the simplest things can feel overwhelming, and this technique assists me in feeling like I can perform and complete what I have to do.

Technique 2: See the value in tasks.

By understanding why you are doing a task in the first place, you can find more purpose in doing it and completing it. I even retain information better if I am learning a new activity or trying to remember a procedure if I know why each step is the way it is or works the way it does. It's great for not just motivation, but also memory because it assigns meaning to the things you are learning.