Needs
The best one-word definition of a need is a lack. In the homeostatic sense, needs arise whenever there is a physiological or psychological imbalance.
Drives
Some exceptions are set up to drive or alleviate the objective need. A drive can simply be defined as a deficiency with instructions. Drives are action oriented and provide a strong emphasis towards achieving goals. They are at the very heart of the motivational process. Examples of the need for food and water are translated into hunger and thirst drives for affiliation.
Goals
Motivation is the goal at the end of the cycle. A goal in the motivation cycle can be defined as something that will reduce a need and reduce a drive. Thus achieving a goal tends to restore physical or psychological balance and reduce or stop drive. Eating food, drinking water, and obtaining friends help restore homeostatic balance and reduce associated drivers. Food, water and friends are the targets of this example.
Follow