A GP’s Two Minute Guide to Motivation for Learning
What is motivation?
‘Those factors that energise and direct behavioural patterns.’
Motivation is influence by intrinsic factors (inner pressures) and extrinsic factors (external incentives or pressures).
Why is it important?
The ability to develop and sustain high levels of motivation is central to your ability to perform your job effectively.
What motivates you to learn?
You need to know why you are learning something before you undertake to learn it.
You are more motivated to learn if you are trying to solve problems you have encountered than just acquire new knowledge.
You are more motivated to learn if you feel valued and secure, have job satisfaction, feel in control and can see the results of your actions.
What de-motivates GPs?
Exhaustion, cynicism, awareness of declining competence and disenchantment etc.
Recent studies have shown GPs frequently feel de-motivated to continue learning, 10 years into their careers as principals.
How can I improve my motivation to learn using a PDP?
A PDP is based on your own needs. You will find it easier to remain motivated to undertake learning with a PDP if you choose to look at improving your knowledge, skills, performance and attitude in areas that you recognise as being important and relevant to your work as a GP. 
You will be more motivated to learn and to make changes in your practice if you set yourself goals that are achievable, using the easily available resources.
Where can I find out more?
Teaching Adults by Alan Rogers.
The Adult Learner by Malcolm Knowles.
Final thoughts
‘Learning is something which takes place within the learner and is personal to him; it is an essential part of his development, for it is always the whole person who is learning. Learning takes place when an individual feels a need, puts forth an effort to meet that need, and experiences satisfaction with the result of this effort.’
Legans 1972