Motivations vs Behaviors

Our self-perceptions are based on our motivations, intentions, and behaviors. Our motivations are internal and cannot be seen by others and drive what we are trying to do (i.e. how we behave). Conflict with others occurs when we make judgments based off others’ behaviors without understanding their internal motivations. We are motivated by a concern for People (wanting to help others), Performance (wanting to achieve results), and Process (wanting to establish order). We are a blend of these three motivations.

If you would like to learn how each of these three motivations drive you, sign up for the Army Management Staff College CES Advanced Course, the CES Intermediate Course, or the SecArmy Leader Development Seminar, where you can take the Strength Deployment Inventory. This instrument can help you better understand your motivations, both when things are going well and when faced with conflict.