Definitions

According to Ormrod (2008), motivation is "an internal state that arouses us to action, pushes us in particular directions, and keeps us engaged in certain activities" (p. 452). 

"Motivation is typically defined as the forces that account for the arousal, selection, direction, and continuation of behavior" (Biehler & Snowman, 1997, p. 399).

Ormrod (2008) defines two types of motivation, "extrinsic motivation exists when the source of motivation lies outside of the individual and the task being performed," and "intrinsic motivation exists when the source of motivation lies within the individual and task:  The individual finds the task enjoyable or worthwhile in and of itself" (p. 454).  

Ryan and Deci (2000) report, "when intrinsically motivated a person is moved to act for the fun or challenge entailed rather than because of external prods, pressures, or rewards" (p. 56).  Motivation in humans is not only of intrinsic quality; however, intrinsic motivation is an important theme in the lives of humans from their infancy (Ryan & Deci, 2000, p. 56).

The National Seminars Group of the Rockhurst University Continuing Education Center lists these as the top ten traits of motivated people.