If we talk about a literal translation from Latin, then the word "stimulus" or stimulus means a pointed stick - a goad used to drive animals. Modern dictionaries reveal the meaning of this word as some kind of external or internal factor that prompts action. That is, events occur according to the following scheme: stimulus - reaction - desired action.
Stimulating action of all kinds is an integral part of life. On this occasion, there is a very good fixed expression: "If you want to force a person to do something, make him want it too." Or in other words, stimulate.
People find incentives everywhere: at home in relationships with their spouses, children, relatives and friends; at work - mainly in cooperation with subordinates.
Types of incentives
There are many types of incentives. First of all, it is, of course, coercion. When a person is simply forced to do something. This is the most unpleasant type of stimulus, but, unfortunately, it is very common in all areas of human life.
Another type of incentive is perhaps the most enjoyable. This is a material incentive. It's nice to receive material rewards for your actions. And when the amount of monetary remuneration begins to grow directly depending on the improvement in the quality of the work performed, then you can count on the conscientiousness and conscientiousness of the employee.
Emotional stimulus, of course, has a right to be, but it is not as effective as the previous type. Few would agree to work just for praise. Although children are very willing to complete the tasks they receive from both parents and teachers as a result of emotional stimulation.
And the last type of incentives is self-affirmation. Often, pride and self-esteem, the desire to prove to others their superiority push a person to action.
It is the concept of incentive that underlies many modern motivational programs that HR directors use when building a team and isolating a leader. The concept of incentive also underlies the description of economic progress, provided that internal reserves exceed needs. In this case, an objective overabundance is considered an incentive.
Physiological stimulation
The concept of a stimulus is also found in physiology. Here, this word means some kind of change in the environment that affects the cell or receptor. This change triggers a reflex response. With a prolonged reaction, sensory adaptation occurs.
The response to the same stimuli is different for each person. There is no specific criterion in the selection of incentives. Each situation is unique and individual. The sheer number of incentives makes it possible to cope with different situations.