What was shown to be vital for an individual's motivation according to surveys?

The opportunity to do interesting work is fundamentally linked to an individual's motivation because it aligns with intrinsic motivators. When individuals find their work engaging and purposeful, this can lead to higher levels of satisfaction and fulfillment. Engaging tasks can spark creativity and innovation, leading employees to feel more connected to their work and invested in their outcomes. Surveys show that when people are doing work that they find interesting, they are more likely to put forth significant effort and feel driven to achieve their goals.

In contrast, although good pay can influence motivation to some degree, it often functions more as a hygiene factor rather than a true motivator. If an individual does not find their work stimulating, no amount of pay will compensate for that lack of engagement. The threat of disciplinary action can create a fearful atmosphere, which may compel individuals to perform minimally but does not encourage genuine motivation or commitment. Lastly, not having to work too hard may seem appealing, but it can lead to boredom or disengagement, as individuals often seek challenges and opportunities for personal growth in their work.