What motivates us is a complex and multifaceted question with no single answer.  Motivation stems from a combination of internal and external factors, and varies significantly from person to person.
Here are some key factors that contribute to motivation:
**Internal Factors:**


* **Intrinsic Motivation:**  This comes from within, driven by personal enjoyment, interest, satisfaction, and a sense of accomplishment.  Examples include pursuing a hobby, learning a new skill, or helping others.


* **Values and Beliefs:**  Our core values and beliefs shape what we find important and worthwhile, influencing our goals and actions.  Doing work that aligns with personal values is a powerful motivator.


* **Curiosity and Exploration:** The desire to learn, discover, and understand drives us to seek new experiences and knowledge.

* **Growth Mindset:** A belief that abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work fosters a strong drive to improve.
* **Self-Efficacy:**  Belief in one's own ability to succeed in a particular task or situation boosts motivation and perseverance.
* **Needs (Maslow's Hierarchy):**  Our basic needs (physiological, safety) and higher-level needs (love, belonging, esteem, self-actualization) influence our motivation.  Meeting these needs fuels motivation, and their absence can hinder it.
* **Emotions:** Feelings like excitement, joy, and pride are powerful motivators. Conversely, fear, anxiety, and stress can demotivate.
* **Personality traits:**  Individual differences in traits like openness, conscientiousness, and extraversion can influence what motivates a person.
**External Factors:**
* **Rewards and Recognition:**  External rewards like praise, bonuses, or promotions can motivate behavior.
* **Goals and Feedback:** Setting clear, attainable goals and receiving regular feedback on progress are crucial motivators.
* **Social Influence:**  The influence of peers, mentors, or role models can significantly impact motivation.  A supportive environment can cultivate motivation.
* **Environment:**  Physical conditions, workplace culture, and social support systems play a role in motivation.  A positive and stimulating environment is often more motivating than a negative one.
* **Purpose and Meaning:** Feeling that one's actions have meaning or contribute to something larger than oneself can be a powerful motivator.
* **Challenges:**  Tasks that present a degree of difficulty but are not overwhelming can be motivating.

It's important to understand that these factors interact in complex ways.  For example, a person might be intrinsically motivated to pursue a career in medicine, but also motivated externally by the financial rewards.  Ultimately, the best approach to understanding and maximizing motivation is to consider the unique combination of internal and external factors that influence an individual.