Final answer:
Motivation is best defined as the wants or needs that direct behavior toward a goal and encompasses both intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Understanding motivation helps in setting and achieving personal and professional goals by providing clarity and momentum, and it is a fundamental aspect of the human experience influencing individual actions and societal developments.
Step-by-step explanation:
Motivation is best defined as the wants or needs that direct behavior toward a goal. This definition points to why we engage in certain activities and what drives us to continue pursing various objectives in life. People are motivated by different factors, including both intrinsic motivation, which comes from within oneself, such as the personal satisfaction or fulfillment from performing an activity, and extrinsic motivation, which involves seeking rewards or acknowledgment from external sources.
Intrinsically motivated individuals might pursue education for the pure joy of learning and personal growth, while others might be extrinsically motivated by the prospect of a high-paying career or to meet societal and family expectations. When setting goals, understanding one's motivation is invaluable as it can provide clarity, momentum, and maintain one's focus on the path toward achieving these goals. Furthermore, it's important to ensure that the goals are measurable, achievable, and appropriately planned out with specific action steps, which help in maintaining motivation and adaptability in meeting career objectives.
Ultimately, motivation is a crucial element of the human experience, affecting not only individual ambitions and actions but also influencing historical events and societal norms as people navigate their roles in the world.