21 Dec 2023
In 2006 I trained in Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) and learned about Motivational Direction Filters, which invites us to explore the driving forces behind our choices. It asserts that individuals are either moving towards something desirable or away from something undesirable.
In this blog post, we will delve into this powerful NLP idea and uncover its implications for personal growth and understanding human behaviour.
Good for: Helping you understand what drives and motivates you and whether these are positive things.
Best completed by: You
The Motivational Direction Filter is a lens through which we can analyse our motivations and those of others. It posits that individuals are primarily guided by one of two motivational directions:
Toward Motivation: Those driven by "toward motivation" are propelled by the desire to attain something positive, desirable, or rewarding. They are motivated by the pursuit of goals, dreams, and aspirations. This group finds inspiration in the promise of success, growth, and personal fulfilment.
Away-From Motivation: Conversely, individuals guided by "away-from motivation" are motivated by the need to avoid or move away from something negative, uncomfortable, or undesirable. They are driven by the fear of failure, pain, or negative consequences. For them, motivation stems from the desire to prevent or alleviate discomfort.
Implications for Personal Growth
Goal Setting - Are you more motivated by the prospect of achieving success (toward) or by avoiding failure (away from)? Tailor your goals accordingly to leverage your primary motivation.
Effective Communication - People respond differently to messages framed in terms of potential gains or avoiding losses. Adapt your communication style to resonate with their motivation.
Overcoming Procrastination - If you lean toward "away-from" motivation, highlighting the negative consequences of delay can spur action. If you favour "toward" motivation, emphasizing the rewards of completing a task can be more effective.
Conflict Resolution - In conflicts, recognizing the differing directions of individuals involved can lead to more empathetic and productive conversations. It can help identify underlying fears or desires that drive behaviour.
While some individuals may have a predominant motivational direction, it's essential to recognize that both "toward" and "away-from" motivations play vital roles in our lives. Achieving a healthy balance between these motivations can lead to a more holistic approach to personal growth and decision-making.
This framework is good for understanding the intricate interplay of motivations in human behaviour. By recognizing whether you are primarily guided by "toward" or "away-from" motivation, you can navigate life's challenges more effectively, set meaningful goals, and foster better communication with others. Ultimately, embracing both directions of motivation can lead to a more balanced and fulfilling journey through life's diverse experiences.
Thank you for reading.
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Dionne
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