Motive is the brush, Behavior is the canvas, unleash the POWER within YOU!
Today, we have the privilege of diving into the world of directing with a focus on a fundamental principle: "Motive Determines Behavior."
As everyone knows, I myself am continuing on my path to becoming an amazing director on set. I want to educate myself as well as teach others during my amazing journey.
To guide us on this enlightening journey, let's introduce you to the remarkable Pip Edwards, a true Australian gem with a wealth of experience in acting, filmmaking, and coaching.
Now, I know the below video is a long one but it is a hidden gem. I stumbled upon this video recently and there are so many great nuggets to take from this to help you become a valuable asset on set as both an actor and director.
Meet Pip Edwards: A Multifaceted Talent
Before we begin, lets first find out who Pip Edwards is.
Pip Edwards is more than just a name; she's a seasoned actor, filmmaker, acting coach, casting assistant, and entrepreneur hailing from the Land Down Under, Australia. Her illustrious career has taken her from the iconic soap opera "Home & Away" to the whimsical world of "Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries" and beyond.
In the realm of cinema, Pip has graced the silver screen with her presence in films like "A Few Less Men" and "Little Black Dress," not to mention her upcoming ventures in "Carmen" and "Death Doula." Her thespian prowess extends to the theater stage, where she has embodied roles in productions by renowned directors like Kip Williams, Imara Savage, and more.
But Pip's talents don't stop at performing; she's also a passionate educator. Through her private coaching studio, "Pip Edwards Creative," she mentors and guides actors of all backgrounds, helping them unlock their potential and achieve their dreams. Pip has even coached actors to secure roles in both Australian and American film and television, a testament to her expertise.
The Essence of "Motive Determines Behavior"
Now, let's delve into the heart of our discussion: the concept that motive determines behavior, a mantra every aspiring actor and actress should etch into their craft.
Imagine you're about to play a character who's about to embark on an emotional journey. Understanding your character's motive is like holding the map to their heart. It's the driving force behind their every word, action, and reaction. Without a clear understanding of motive, your performance might feel hollow or disconnected.
In our fast-paced world of constant change and increasing complexity, one truth remains constant: the power lies in those who act with self-determination and unwavering persistence. Your motivation, that fiery core within you, is your most invaluable asset. Its worth fluctuates depending on how you invest your attention.
Ever pondered why we're all born with limitless potential, yet so few fulfill those possibilities, as Abraham Maslow once questioned? What drives us, humans, to act the way we do? Some motives originate biologically, while others are deeply rooted in personal and societal influences.
Let's journey through the science of motivation with the goal of empowering actors, and indeed anyone, to understand and harness the driving forces that steer our behavior.
So, whether you're a budding actor, an aspiring actress, or simply someone eager to unravel the mysteries of human motivation, read on to discover the core concepts that shape our actions.
Exploring the Science of Motivation
Our motivation can be traced to both internal and external sources. Biological variables, rooted in our brain and nervous system, interact with psychological variables that represent the essence of our minds—our psychological needs.
These needs, such as hunger, thirst, and the pursuit of pleasure, create the biological beginnings that eventually manifest as psychological drives. It's crucial to distinguish between physiological needs and the psychological drives they generate because only the latter holds true motivational properties.
The drive theory of motivation teaches us that physiological needs originate in our bodies. As our physiological systems strive to maintain equilibrium, they create psychological drives that motivate us to move from deficiency toward homeostasis.
Motivation is like a dynamic dance between internal and external factors. Our evolutionary history and individual experiences shape our motives and determine the utility of goals and incentives. This intricate interplay guides our behavior in ways we might not always consciously realize.
The Role of Goals in Motivation
When we talk about motivation, we inevitably discuss goals. Goals serve as the catalysts for action, igniting the flame that propels us forward with purpose and direction. A goal is like a spring to action, energizing and directing our behavior toward a desired outcome.
Goals are born from the discrepancy between where we are and where we want to be. Without clear goals, it's like wandering aimlessly on an undefined path. But it's not just about setting goals; it's about making them challenging, specific, and congruent with your self-concept.
Challenging goals demand more effort, focused attention, and draw energy from their alignment with your values. These attributes transform goals into powerful motivators, driving us to reach new heights.
The Interplay of Motivation and Emotion
The concepts of share a deep connection. Both derive from the Latin root "movere," meaning "to move." Emotions are considered motivational states because they energize us, capture our attention, and trigger our reactions in response to significant life events.
Emotions generate an impulse to cope with the circumstances at hand, guiding our behavior and decision-making. They are intertwined with motivation as part of the core psychological phenomenon known as affect.
Understanding the synergy between motivation and emotion is essential, as it significantly impacts our mental and physical health. Positive emotions, in particular, play a pivotal role in boosting motivation, creativity, and overall wellbeing.
Personality Traits and Motivation
Are certain personality factors linked to motivation? Yes, indeed. Personality theory and research suggest that our personality traits influence how we are motivated. Your personality traits can determine the incentives, goals, and activities that drive you, as well as the situations you gravitate toward.
For example, individuals high in extraversion are more likely to seek social stimulation, while those high in conscientiousness tend to engage in health-enhancing behaviors. These traits shape not only our motives but also how we express and respond to motivation.
Understanding your personality traits can illuminate your Character's unique motivational drivers and help you navigate the complex landscape of human behavior.
Motivation is frequently discussed in the context of change. Whether you're embarking on a fitness journey, entering therapy, or pursuing personal development, the desire for change is a common thread.
However, change is seldom a straightforward, linear process. It often requires self-control to abstain from enjoyable yet unproductive behaviors and commitment to challenging and unrewarding tasks that lead to valued outcomes.
Deci and Ryan's theory of autonomous self-regulation suggests that we should aim to move away from extrinsically motivated actions driven by fear of consequences and toward intrinsically motivated actions aligned with our values and life goals.
Understanding motivation in the context of change is vital, as it guides us toward more intentional actions and fosters healthy development and self-determination. This in turn will drive a more power and relatable character within the film you are woking on.
Happiness and Human Motivation
Happiness can be a potent motivating factor, but its definition varies from person to person. Research in positive psychology reveals that cultivating optimism and positive emotions can enhance motivation and lead to improved productivity and overall life satisfaction.
Positive emotions, like joy and gratitude, broaden our perception, increase positive affect, and boost overall wellbeing. They empower us to be more creative, helpful, persistent, and efficient in our endeavors.
Understanding the link between happiness and motivation can guide us toward a more fulfilling and purpose-driven life. By developing personal strengths, character, and finding meaning in our pursuits, we can tap into a deep well of motivation that propels us toward our goals.
Empower Yourself through Understanding
Delving into the science of motivation empowers us to find practical solutions to real-world challenges. It allows us to inspire intentional actions, achieve goals, savor optimal experiences, and foster personal growth and resilience.
Motivation is the driving force behind progress, and understanding its intricacies helps us navigate the complex terrain of human behavior. This knowledge is a powerful tool on your journey toward being a sold-out, must have Actor or Actress. Understanding all of this will really help you become your character and create a lasting impresson on the audience.
Remember, the greatest victory lies in conquering oneself. So, aspire to rise above your limitations and embark on a path of self-mastery, where motivation is your unwavering companion.
Learning from Pip: A Coach with a Difference
Pip's passion for teaching is palpable. She offers a treasure trove of insights, helping actors break through barriers and excel as performers, creators, and even in the business side of acting. Her extensive experience ensures she's up-to-date with industry trends and demands, providing her students with valuable, relevant knowledge.
Pip's dedication to the holistic well-being of actors shines through her role as the co-chair of the MEAA Actor's Equity Wellness Collective. She understands the highs and lows of the craft and is committed to helping actors thrive both personally and professionally.
To get a taste of Pip's wisdom, check out her YouTube video titled "Directing Actors." It's a goldmine of knowledge that complements what we're discussing here, and I highly recommend giving it a watch.
A Lesson for Aspiring Actors and Actresses
As we wrap up this enlightening journey into the world of directing and acting, remember this: "Motive Determines Behavior" is not just a phrase; it's the essence of compelling storytelling and authentic performance.
Whether you're a budding actor, an aspiring actress, or simply someone with a passion for the craft, Pip Edwards' insights can ignite your artistic journey. Her coaching, her experiences, and her dedication to actor well-being are invaluable tools in your pursuit of the limelight.
So, take this lesson to heart, and let it be the guiding star on your path to becoming a brilliant actor or actress. Pip Edwards is a shining example of what dedication and expertise can achieve in this dynamic industry.
Keep dreaming, keep learning, and may your motives always drive your behavior towards success in the world of acting.
References:
Positive Psychology. (n.d.). Motivation and Human Behavior. Retrieved from https://positivepsychology.com/motivation-human-behavior/
Ebin John Poovathany. (n.d.). Self-Determination Theory and Intrinsic Motivation. Retrieved from https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/self-determination-theory-intrinsic-motivation-ebin-john-poovathany/
Akshay Karandikar. (n.d.). Unleashing the Power of Dreams to Fuel Success. Retrieved from https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/unleashing-power-dreams-fuel-success-akshay-karandikar/
Improvementsavvy.com. (n.d.). Emotion and Motivation. Retrieved from https://www.improvementsavvy.com/emotion-and-motivation/
Harveker.com. (n.d.). Self-Motivation for Positive Change. Retrieved from https://www.harveker.com/blog/self-motivation-positive-change/
ResearchGate. (n.d.). Representation of Goals as the Transactive Point among Cognition, Motivation, and Emotion. Retrieved from https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Representation-of-goals-as-the-transactive-point-among-cognition-motivation-and-emotion_fig1_225193331
ResearchGate. (n.d.). E-Mechanism of the Influence of Happiness on Motivation. Retrieved from https://www.researchgate.net/figure/e-mechanism-of-the-influence-of-happiness-on-motivation_fig1_320402896
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