Motivation and self-regulation: The role of want-to motivation in the processes underlying self-regulation and self-control

Abstract

Research on self-regulation has largely focused on the idea of effortful self-control, which assumes that exerting willpower will lead to greater success. However, in recent years, research has challenged this perspective and instead proposes that effortless self-regulation is more adaptive for long-term goal pursuit. Taking into consideration the burgeoning literature on effortless self-regulation, here we propose that motivation – or the reasons why we pursue our goals – plays an integral role in this process. The objective of the present paper is thus to highlight how motivation can play a role in how self-regulation unfolds. Specifically, we propose that pursuing goals because you want-to (vs. have-to) is associated with better goal attainment as a function of experiencing less temptations and obstacles. While the reason why want-to motivation relates to experiencing fewer obstacles has yet to be thoroughly explored, here we propose some potential mechanisms drawing from recent research on self-regulation. We also provide recommendations for future research, highlighting the importance of considering motivation in the study of self-regulatory processes.

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“…Together, these findings suggest that self-reported motivation to engage in behavior changes targeted toward specific psychological symptoms is a better predictor of engagement with mindfulness meditation than are psychological resources. This is broadly consistent with research on the importance of "wantto" motivation, in contrast to effortful self-control, for self-regulation and health behavior [51,52]. Of note, the 4 ©JWellness 2020 Vol 2, (1) participants in this study were not experienced meditators, and this finding may not generalize to populations that have extensive meditation experience.…”

Integrating Models of Self-Regulation

“…Even more useful, we think, is work focused on the motivational structure of people's goals (Ryan & Deci, 2000). When people truly identify with their goals, when they truly want-to accomplish them for autonomous reasons, they are not tempted or conflicted by other desires (Milyavskaya, Inzlicht, Hope, & Koestner, 2015;Werner & Milyavskaya, 2018). This suggests they can accomplish such goals without the need for control Ryan & Deci, 2000).…”

Motivational processes during physical endurance tasks

“…Instead, an emphasis is placed on the extent that engaging in the endurance act is consistent with the performer's sense of self. This conceptualization of motivation is informed by several theories, sharing similarities with autonomous motivation, 9 “want to” motivation, 10 and self‐relevant goal pursuit 6 . The term “autonomous motivation” is used hereafter because the term has deep historical roots and broadest evidence base in sport science.…”