Everyones motivation differs. Varying personality traits can be a reason for motivation differences. One interesting personality trait is sensation seeking. The text quotes that, "Sensation seeking is a trait defined by the seeking of varied, novel, complex, and intense sensations and experiences, and the willingness to take physical, social, legal, and financial risks for the sake of such experience" (Zuckerman, 1994, p.27). Risk comes along with sensation seeking because of the consequences of the rewarding experiences. Sensation seekers have the desire for thrill and adventure, stimulation, and hedonistic behavior. We all tend to have a wild side, but most people draw a line between a little adventure in their life and risking their life on a daily basis. I have known people who have participated in extreem sports and it often seems they get a high from the experience. It's like riding a roller coaster, it is somewhat scary, but for some reason many people enjoy the thrill of it. People with high sensation seeking personalities seem to be more motivated to participate in risky behaviors in life than low sensation seekers. I have to say I believe I am a low sensation seeker myself. I watch extreem sports and at times in my life I've wished that I was more open to these experiences, but I have always been one to avoid a risk instead.
I always avoid risk so I am sure I am a low sensation seeker. Last year however I did decide to go sky diving. For someone who is not used to throwing caution to the wind i was quite scared. It turned out to be a lot of fun so I can understand people who have the desire for adventure. One time was enough for me though, me feet will stay firmly on the ground from now on!
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