Motivation and Happiness

This article first appeared on www.workandrelationships.wordpress.com

“What motivates you?” asked the interviewer.

His face now twisted as if in deep thoughts. It sounded like my answer would be the summary of everything I had said during my short interview.

“God,” I answered unconvincingly. It was my first interview after campus and I had no idea what to say. He turned towards the large louvre window overlooking the backyard. Tall trees dominated the air and their branches lingered close to the window. It was a hot day outside but this micro-climate was cool and free from human noises. The silence preceding my answer was filled with sounds of soft wind, chirping birds and buzzing insects. He pointed at a beautiful bird trying to get through the window and laughed lightly. I did not join in; I was in an interview, right?

 “What motivates you?” he repeated slowly. He was still facing the window- fascinated by nature. I gave my best explanation which sounded flat to both of us. See, I took a college degree I did not like and it was leading to jobs I did not feel. I did not have a deep desire to change the world in this career path. I just wanted a job- that’s what people get after graduation. Later that evening, I googled for the right answers but they did not resonate with my heart.

Miraculously, I still got the job. But the big question stayed with me and I started seeing motives in everything. There is a purpose behind sleeping, waking up, dressing up, working, eating, talking, having a family, etc. You might not be aware of these reasons but they are there.

So what really motivates me?

I don’t have many points to this question. After many years of thinking about my why, I believe that we are motivated by our innate desire to be happy. We do what makes us happy. Simple. I find the idea of being motivated by others or by rewards short-lived.

Happiness is the end goal. Is that not errm… selfish? There are enough arguments for or against hedonism (achieving well-being by pursuing pleasure and avoiding suffering). There is even Christian hedonism coined by Pastor John Piper. And so I will not write about these arguments here although I am for Piper’s school of thought. But how do you know if your motives are right? Here are my three suggestions;

Humility: Is recognition driving your life? Are you manipulating others to get ahead? Are you a people-pleaser? Our pleasure should come from a heart that considers others better than us. Out of love.

Glorifies the God: Are your ambitions at odds with the will of God? Will your actions be right before your creator? We must put ourselves on the weighing scale of absolute truth.

Impact on others: If we pursue happiness, it should not bring suffering to others. It should not come from selfish ambitions or strife. A happiness that does not spread to others is a dangerous cause.

Motives change often and it helps to keep evaluating yourself. For instance, you might start your career with the right inspiration but as you gain more success, pride and greed become your primary stimulation- thanks to the deceitfulness of the human heart.

Are your actions today satisfying and healthy?