Attribution Theory on Motivation

Do You Know You Lie to Yourself?

The attribution theory describes how people explain the behavior of others or themselves with something else. Hello! Does excuses and/or blame ring a bell? Human Beings are very good at rationalization. We can always find a twist or perspective to support our thinking or actions; therefore, we must be careful.

The motivation theory associated here describes how people explain, justify, and/or provide excuses about influences on their motivation - meaning, their current motivation level is due to some external reason that has nothing to do with them.

Blame It On Anybody But Me!

The attribution theory is in direct conflict with one of the key components for success - individual accountability. As you know, motivation is an inside job and each person must take responsibility for finding motivation from within or finding external motivational factors to fire them up. More often than not - a combination of internal and external motivation is needed. Because success requires patience, fueling your motivation when necessary is important.

Don't Delude Yourself

There is something else to consider about this motivation theory. Have you ever noticed how people are happy to take credit for positive or good things that happen, but blame the situation or other factors when failure or other negative results occur? As I stated earlier, we are pretty good at rationalizing things. Often this leads to self deception and delusionment. Don't kid yourself. when you do, you only hurt yourself.

Make a commitment not to fall into the trap of unhealthy rationalization. If you want sustainable motivation and success - you must own up to built up - otherwise you will not succeed.