Habits, Motivation and Performance: An Integrative Model for Organisational Improvement Grounded in Brain Science

Purpose: Organizations aim to cultivate motivated and productive workforces, yet often struggle to understand the complex neurological factors shaping employee habits, engagement, and performance. This paper presents an integrative model linking psychological needs, motivation systems, and contextual supports to optimize collective habits and outcomes. Methodology: A mixed methods study of 400 employees in Zambia's public health sector combined surveys, interviews, statistical analysis, and prior organizational research. Findings: Results indicated the limitations of existing habit frameworks in capturing neurological dynamics. Just 31% felt current models reliably predict long-term impacts on performance. Key findings revealed that the top motivators were financial rewards, career growth, and training. On-the-job skill-building is also rated highly. Clear expectations, collaboration, and resources further enabled productivity. Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: Based on the data, a Motivation-Performance Model is proposed, encompassing elements like empowerment, open communication, and flexibility to fulfil psychological needs. Individual, team, and organizational factors intersect to form collective habits and effectiveness. Implementing diagnostic and enhancement strategies based on the model offers an actionable approach to leveraging habits for competitive advantage.