Beyond Boundaries: A Lecture on Motivation and Empowerment
Introduction
- Theme: Beyond Boundaries
- Key Ideas:
- Boundaries often associated with rules, regulations, and accountability.
- "Beyond boundaries" involves inspiration to go beyond the call of duty.
Self-Motivation and Empowerment
- Empowerment:
- Traditional view: Getting more done with fewer resources.
- Feeling empowered: Being self-motivated.
Three Questions for Empowerment
- Can you do it?
- Self-efficacy: Belief in one's ability to execute tasks.
- Requires time, knowledge, and training.
- Will it work?
- Response efficacy: Belief in the process leading to the desired outcome.
- Education is necessary to show why something might work.
- Is it worth it?
- Motivation and consequences: Understanding the value of the actions.
- Influenced by the perceived consequences.
- Outcome: Affirmative answers lead to feeling competent and self-motivated.
Importance of Feedback and Recognition
- Feedback and recognition help individuals feel competent.
- Competence in worthwhile work leads to increased self-motivation.
The Role of Choice and Autonomy
- Choice:
- Autonomy enhances self-motivation.
- Paradigm shift from feeling controlled (negative reinforcement) to being success seekers.
Community and Social Support
- Community:
- Social support is critical for motivation and happiness.
- Moving from independence to interdependence.
Illustrative Poem: "The Cookie Thief" by Valerie Cox
- Moral: Importance of perspective and understanding interdependence.
Personal Story: Learning the Drums
- Vision and Consequences:
- Motivation through a vision of future success (better equipment).
- Experiences of Competence and Feedback:
- Overcoming challenges with guidance and feedback.
- Learning from both peers and mentors.
Conclusion
- Key Takeaways:
- Empowerment relies on perceived competence, understanding of consequences, choice, and community.
- Humility and the courage to accept feedback and learn from others are crucial.
- Self-motivation can be fostered through community support and recognition.
Final Note: We need each other to fuel motivation and actively care for one another.