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Motivation

Motivation concerns the forces influencing the direction, intensity and persistence of effort towards an objective. At work it can reflect the task itself, personal goals, social relationships, working conditions and expected outcomes. Different people can value different rewards, and circumstances can change their willingness or ability to act. Motivation is relevant to performance but cannot compensate for every lack of skill, equipment or opportunity.

Worked example

An employee wants to solve customer problems and values professional development. Meaningful work and suitable training may encourage effort, but a broken booking system can still prevent good results.

Common mistake

Do not equate motivation with pay alone or assume low performance proves unwillingness. Diagnose capability, resources, clarity and incentives as well as effort.

Where it appears in your exams

QualificationExamRelationshipPeriod
ACCA BT Direct September 2026–June 2027
FIA FBT Direct September 2026–June 2027