Motivational Essay

Giving someone an enticement or incentive to do something is often times labeled as motivation. Motivation can be defined as “providing with a reason to act in a certain way.” (www.dictionary.com). It is essential to have a clear and precise working definition before creating a motivational plan. Being able to effectively utilize motivation will ultimately depend on the one leading the motivation; the leader has to discern the needs and the beliefs of the people they are trying to stimulate. Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs simply affirms that everyone has many altitudes of needs (Berl, Williamson, & Powell 1984). These needs stem from physiological needs, protection needs, esteem needs, social needs and self-actualization needs. A true manager is gifted to meet people right where they are and lead them into a new understanding of meeting their needs in motivation. It’s clear that schools success can be based upon how motivated the staff is. With that being said, it’s clear that schools need motivation plans to stimulate the staff to give the school their very best; in doing so, the school will become successful. A successful leader understands how to use tools to motivate each member they are leading. The following motivational theories will aid in generating and explaining a motivational plan for a school.

Motivational Theories

McGregor’s Theory X and Theory Y are all based upon the beliefs in human beings. For example, Theory X explains that people abhor work and try there hardest to shun it at all cost. These people are lazy people and need extra work to make them productive in the work place. Theory Y explains that people believe that work is a normal part of life. Theory Y deems people want to work and will do anything to accomplish their jobs. Theory Y bosses should do all they can to support that factor by giving them everything they need to completed their jobs.

Goal Setting Theory is based on goals that are set high and this gives everyone...