Although some individuals do volunteer work, for most people money is a universal motivator. However, besides money, there are many additional motivators or reasons why we work and we may not even be completely aware of what motivates us. If you are seeking to develop an encore career, start a small business, begin a senior side hustle, accessing your motivators may help in your decision making and success.
The first time you read this list of motivators and the examples of behaviors common to this motivator, you will probably select five to ten of these 30 motivators as describing you. Reviewing your list again, perhaps reviewing it several times and reviewing your work history and your ideas or dreams for your next potential opportunity, reduce your list to your top five motivators that will be essential in your next endeavor. If you discover that identifying your top five motivators is difficult or confusing, you may want to discuss this exercise with someone who knows you well.
This following list of motivators are not ranked by importance or popularity; they are listed in alphabetical order.
1 Accomplishments
- Do you feel proud when you use your education, technical training, experience, or special skills in your work?
- Do you feel a sense of completion when you finish a work-related task or project?
- Do you like undertaking expert tasks or special projects?
#2 Action
- Do you like work assignments that are high risk or give you an adrenaline rush?
- Do you enjoy being constantly on the go, living with tight deadlines?
- Do you like the buzz of a busy environment?