Motivation is an inner psychological force that activates and directs behavior toward goals. It stems from needs and wants and is influenced by individual traits and learning. Highly motivated employees tend to work more efficiently and be more productive.
Maslow's hierarchy of needs proposes that people are motivated to fulfill physiological, safety, social, esteem and self-actualization needs in that order. ERG theory is an alternative that groups these needs into existence, relatedness and growth. McClelland's needs theory identifies the needs for power, affiliation and achievement as key motivators. Expectancy theory and equity theory are process-based theories that explain how motivation occurs based on desired outcomes and perceptions of fair treatment.