Why they do the things they do Character Motivation

Random? Would you ever give away your favorite snack at lunch? Can you think of reasons that you might? Things that might MOTIVATE you?

No matter what reasons you have for doing the things you do, there are always reasons. Not too much in life is completely random, if you really stop to examine people and situations.

Motivation A character’s motivation is what makes him/her think, feel, or act in a particular way. When you know the reasons for a character’s actions, thoughts, or feelings, you understand his/her motivation. A character’s motivation influences his/her actions. The actions, in turn, reveal the character traits.

Different Types of Motivation Religious beliefs (or lack thereof): Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Atheism, etc., all have the power to affect how people see the world Relationships: family; friends; love; hate; betrayal Obligation: knowing you should do something whether you want to or not; fear of looking bad to others

Types of Motivation cont. Needs and wants: money; basic needs; greed; dreams Cultural influences: society; expectations Revenge: past wrongs; hurt; anger Past experiences: childhood; frightening situations; defining moments Fear: the unknown; the past repeating itself