***You know what, I am a professional procrastinator. I  usually don't get motivated if there is no deadline, and  once there is a deadline, I procrastinate again till about few days or hours to the deadline depending on how the situation warrant and funny enough, not to brag, I have met 90% of my deadline, probably it just a sense of self, I actually do better under pressure, sometimes I feel like maybe it the way I am wired. But still I can't help but wonder, how better of a person would I be if only I am motivated not to procrastinate and tackle situations as early as possible. But again human are designed to be naturally lazy*.**

### The Psychology of Motivation

![](https://images.ecency.com/DQmQR9FZsGW8V13ExnPHbkFyNJVYQ4PZz5VRk33YJRihLtF/istockphoto_1331059443_612x612.jpg)
[src](https://www.istockphoto.com/vector/low-poly-brain-or-artificial-intelligence-concept-symbol-of-wisdom-point-abstract-gm1331059443-414300234)

We have all been there: you sit down at your desk – maybe it's a Monday morning or maybe it's 4 p.m. on the Friday of a long week – and you know you have to work on something, but the motivation just isn't there. We hear people talking about how self-motivation is something that needs to be "sought out", but what does that even mean?

Turns out, motivation isn't as elusive as it seems. The science behind motivation is a combination of psychology and neuroscience research: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4864984/

This, actually tells us that motivation is driven by two main factors: intrinsic and extrinsic. Intrinsic motivation is the kind of drive we feel from within – it's driven by our own goals, values, and ambitions. It often involves taking risks to achieve results that are meaningful for ourselves. On the flip side, extrinsic motivation often comes from external sources like rewards or incentives.

So when we feel unmotivated, what usually needs to happen is a switch in perspective between our intrinsic and extrinsic motivations. If nothing feels intrinsically rewarding anymore, explore what external rewards could take it’s place—maybe this new project will actually look great on your resume or lead to larger professional accolades in the future? Switching between intrinsic and extrinsic motivators can help give yourself the kick you need to get moving again!

### Neurochemical Signals of Motivation

Now, have you ever noticed that it's easier to get motivated when you receive a reward, incentive or a pat on the back, even if it's just from yourself? Well, science has the explanation for why – turns out, our brain cells are actually wired to be motivated by rewards! Dopamine doing it's thing.

It all comes down to neurochemicals. When we receive a reward or recognition, three key neurotransmitters are released: dopamine (the “pleasure chemical”), serotonin (the “bonding chemical”) and oxytocin (the “trust hormone”). These chemicals work together to send signals of motivation throughout our bodies and brains.

The release of these neurochemicals can help us understand why rewarding ourselves with something small, like an extra hour of sleep or a piece of chocolate, can be so effective in helping us stay motivated throughout the day. Plus, it explains why celebrating your successes is even better – think more chocolate!

### Now how exactly is motivation turned on or off?

![](https://images.ecency.com/DQmbdPH1ZXVtKwbStyUpWsaHEbQug2QiozzUKEWf1SipJVr/istockphoto_824797622_612x612.jpg)
[src](https://www.istockphoto.com/vector/low-polygon-brain-wireframe-mesh-on-blue-background-gm824797622-133647949)

I'm sure we've all heard of the reward system, right? Well, it turns out there's some pretty cool science powering it.

Now pay attention,  there's a region in your brain called the ventral tegmental area (VTA) which is responsible for releasing dopamine when you experience something enjoyable or rewarding. This release is then transferred to other areas of the brain including the prefrontal cortex and nucleus accumbens, which can cause pleasure and motivate further action.

It's like flipping that mental switch to turn your motivation on—or off. For example, let's say you're studying for a test. You might feel that desire to start studying because you want higher grades, which is your reward for dedicating yourself to studying. That same desire to receive your reward motivates you to actually start studying and continue doing so until you reach success!

But when it comes time to flip that switch off, well, things don't usually go as smoothly. You might have "checked-out" already because maybe it's been too long or you've simply lost motivation after having studied too many hours already. Either way, lack of focus leads us into a motivational slump—but don't worry, there are ways to get back on track! You can check it [here](https://incafrica.com/library/chris-winfield-13-ways-to-break-out-of-any-slump-and-get-motivated)

### Brain Regions Related to Motivation

Have you ever wondered why exercising or finishing a project is so difficult? It's because motivation is a complex process that involves more than just self-discipline and dedication.

So what happens in the brain when we get motivated? Turns out, a few regions of the brain plays an important role here. Let me break it down for you:

##### The striatum

If the brain were a computer, the striatum would be its internal hard drive. It's responsible for understanding and processing rewards, which enables us to make decisions about how much energy to put towards a task. When our striatum is working well, we're far more likely to stay motivated and focused on our goals.

##### The amygdala

This small but mighty brain region not only helps us recognize potential threats or dangers but also encourages us to take action through the release of dopamine. The amygdala works with other regions to generate feelings of anticipation and excitement as rewards draw closer.

##### The nucleus accumbens

This is the swing region of motivation—it's where we decide if something is worth pursuing or not. If your nucleus accumbens tells you that something is rewarding enough, then you'll be willing to take risks in order to move closer towards the reward.

So now you know! Next time you're finding it hard to get motivated, remember that it's all in your head—literally!

#### The Power of Positive Reinforcement

Have you ever heard the phrase, "Fake it till you make it?" Well, turns out there's actually a scientific basis for that. 
Positive reinforcement is one of the strongest motivators out there, and it can help spark lasting changes in your behavior.

It's all about how your brain responds when you're presented with a reward or a positive outcome; essentially, you're introducing an incentive that encourages a behavior to recur. To explain further: when future rewards are tied to current actions (like getting a delicious donut after hitting the gym) your brain has an easier time connecting those two points.

This shows us how we can take control of our own motivation—by focusing on progress, celebrating achievements, and reinforcing our positive behavior with rewards we can actually improve our own productivity levels and keep ourselves in the game for longer.

So next time you're feeling unmotivated, just remember that taking small steps towards your goal along with positive reinforcement can be just as powerful as any other form of motivation. Who knows—you might even surprise yourself with what you accomplish!

### How Our Environment Plays a Role in Motivation

![](https://images.ecency.com/DQmbJbnToDAgbSqxAXzjmhav7rRDz76bhX4Caj6XtRv5rzg/trees_6361892_1280.jpg)
[src](https://pixabay.com/illustrations/trees-faces-dialogue-nerves-brain-6361892/)

For me, motivation is like a ticking time bomb. Just when I think it's detonated and gone, it can come back in the most unexpected places. You see, our environment plays a huge role in how motivated we are, and the science behind it is fascinating.

The idea is that our physical environment can affect how motivated we feel because we create associations between our environment and how motivated we are in that particular place. For instance, if you meet your friend for coffee to discuss a project you're working on and you're totally energized after your session, chances are you're going to associate that coffee shop with motivation.

This theory has been backed up by research into dopamine, which is one of the hormones involved in motivation. It turns out that our environment (and even smells!) can help trigger the release of dopamine in our brains which reinforces our motivational behavior—in this case working on a project with your friend. So if you want to get motivated next time, why not try changing up your environment? Who knows what kind of new motivation levels you'll hit!

Overall, I am no expert on motivation but it turns out that motivation isn't some mystery force that you can never predict or control - it's within our reach, a real and tangible thing that can be studied and understood. Whether you're a CEO, a student, or just someone who wants to get better at something, make sure to stay mindful of your environment and practice self-awareness to unlock your full potential.

And remember, as Albert Einstein famously said: "In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity." So, if you want to get motivated, don't be afraid to embrace the challenge!

### *Resources used*

[1](https://incafrica.com/library/chris-winfield-13-ways-to-break-out-of-any-slump-and-get-motivated)

[2](https://www.sciencefocus.com/science/neuroscience-of-motivation/)

[3](https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnhum.2017.00145/full)

[4](https://mashable.com/article/the-neuroscience-of-motivation)

[5](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbescoachescouncil/2019/03/26/the-neuroscience-of-motivation-how-our-brains-drive-hard-work-and-achievement/?sh=58becd2e5fcb)

[6](https://www.researchgate.net/publication/310736855_Introduction_to_Motivational_Neuroscience)

[7](https://www.futurelearn.com/info/courses/from-philosophy-to-practice/0/steps/70282)