How can science help us unleash the spark? Jacques Forest, PhD, CHRP, Researcher and Professor at ESG UQÀM presents the essentials to remember from 50 years of research.
Motivation is the key to our lives. Whether at work, home, school, or in sports, we constantly seek ways to feel motivated.
This excerpt from Jacques Forest et al.’s book presentation piqued our interest to invite him as a speaker in our client event on October 5th, 2022. Within the current unemployment crisis, the need to retain employees is more pressing than ever. Let’s see what Dr. Forest had to share regarding unleashing motivation within teams.
Fifty years of research on self-determination theory indicate that three dimensions predict optimal motivation quality. Depending on whether these three dimensions are satisfied or frustrated, our motivation level will fluctuate.
What are these three dominant dimensions for quality motivation?
Each person is different, but studies on self-determination theory identify three dimensions that play significant roles in our motivation levels: the need for competence, affiliation, and autonomy. These three needs have increasing effects on healthy motivation when they are nourished by a search for fulfillment and meaning. These results have been scientifically validated in recent years in 26 different cultures.
The Need for Competence
For this need to be satisfied, it is not necessary to accumulate degrees or be well-versed in every subject. We mainly wish to have an impact on the world and acquire the tools necessary to achieve our goals.
Here are some signs of a satisfied need for competence:
– Feeling confident in our ability to accomplish a given task or activity
– Believing that we can achieve our desired goals
– Feeling that we can develop our skills
– Feeling successful in a role or project
– Completing tasks efficiently and with a sense of expertise
Conversely, if this need is frustrated, we feel disappointment, fear failure, or doubt our abilities to achieve goals.
The Need for Affiliation or Connection
We are social beings to varying degrees, and this need for belonging is manifested through establishing relationships. It is not necessary to be the most popular person to have this sense of belonging. Having a friend at work, feeling appreciated, and being able to express ourselves authentically are examples of a satisfied need for affiliation.
Other signs of a fulfilled need for affiliation:
– Being part of one or more groups
– Having positive and authentic bonds
– Feeling appreciated and accepted
– Caring for others
– Trusting and being trusted by team members
Conversely, a frustrated need for affiliation will result in exclusion, loneliness, and a sense of rejection.
The Need for Autonomy
Self-determination theory defines autonomy as the ability to make choices, decisions, and feel capable of doing things that correspond with who you are. It is not about needing to control everything, but feeling psychologically free and comfortable in what you do.
Once this need is satisfied:
– It allows us to be ourselves
– It allows us to express our ideas and opinions regarding action plans
– It helps us defend our goals and decisions
– It encourages us to take initiative
On the other hand, if a person’s need for autonomy is frustrated, they may feel overwhelmed or constrained to do things they wouldn’t have done otherwise. If you feel that situations are controlling you instead of the opposite, reflect on the state of your need for autonomy.
Dr. Forest’s conference concluded with a fruitful exchange and discussion with the participants. Each of the three dimensions is highly personal. It is therefore important to consider our individual strengths regarding the needs for competence, affiliation, and autonomy. Above all, it is essential to assess these three dimensions to identify potential motivational issues.
He provided a very telling metaphor: every plant needs water, nutrients, and light to grow and develop, but each type of plant does not have the same needs. Think of the cactus that stores water and, on the other hand, our annuals that need to be watered daily.
Have you explored these topics with your teams recently? Each of the three dimensions is highly relevant for motivating humans who work with humans in our customer relationship centres.
We will draw 10 copies of the book “Unleashing Motivation with Self-Determination Theory” among new sign-ups for our newsletter! Watch your emails.
By Guillaume Delroeux
Guillaume is President and Practice Leader in Customer Experience at Prométhée consultants and helps organizations with contact centres make the most of their technologies to maximize their impact and create legendary customer experiences.