How Attitude Influences Work Motivation

A good attitude positively influences work motivation.

An overall positive attitude positively influences work motivation. Optimism can improve health, as medical doctors confirm. On the other hand, negative attitudes decrease work motivation. Internal factors motivate employees more than external factors.

History

Frederick Herzberg, an American psychologist, studied work and motivation extensively. In 1959, he published "The Motivation to Work" in which he interviewed employees about what they liked and did not like about work. He found that although dissatisfying factors contribute to a lack of motivation at work, satisfying factors influence workers more heavily.

Benefits

A positive person is usually nicer to be around than a negative person. Satisfied workers demonstrate achievement, recognition, work enjoyment, increased responsibility, growth and advancement.

Hindrances

Hindrances can affect work motivation negatively. Sometimes the cause lies with personal difficulties outside of the office such as finances, marriage, or even a new baby. Other reasons may include work-related difficulties with a coworker or supervisor or overall job dissatisfaction. Procrastination negatively impacts most employees.

References

• Net MBA Business Knowledge Center: Herzberg's Motivation-Hygiene Theory (Two Factor Theory)