Motivation, Reward-Seeking Actions, and Positive Thinking: Insights from the Quran

Motivation, characterized by the urge to pursue objectives, holds a crucial position in directing and attaining our goals. It acts as a major influencer of human conduct, nurturing rivalry and nurturing interpersonal connections. Conversely, its deficiency can exacerbate mental health challenges.

There are numerous verses in the Quran that offer inspiration and motivation during times of difficulty or hardship in life. For example,

Do not lose heart or despair- if you are true believers you have the upper hand” [Quran 3:139].

“You who believe, seek help through steadfastness and prayer, for God is with the steadfast.” [Quran 2:153]

“And will provide for them from an unexpected source; God will be enough for those who put their trust in Him. God achieves His purpose; God has set a due measure for everything.” [Quran 65:3]

Positive thinking can lead to improved well-being. It can help reduce rates of depression, decrease levels of distress and pain, enhance resistance to illnesses, and make us better.

The Quran advocates for positivity by emphasizing hope and gratitude. It encourages believers to maintain a positive outlook even in challenging situations and to have faith in the ultimate wisdom, mercy, and justice of Allah. For example,

“So truly where there is hardship there is also ease;” [Quran 94:5].

“Say, ‘[God says], My servants who have harmed yourselves by your own excess, do not despair of God’s mercy. God forgives all sins: He is truly the Most Forgiving, the Most Merciful.” [Quran 39:53].

“Except those who repent, believe, and do good deeds: God will change the evil deeds of such people into good ones. He is most forgiving, most merciful.” [Quran 25:70]

The neurotransmitter dopamine plays a vital role in reinforcing and motivating behaviors and in controlling motivation — in acquiring knowledge about the right and wrong, and in selecting behaviors to attain positive outcomes while avoiding negative ones. Reciting Quranic verses assists individuals in concentrating on objectives for the future and actions aimed at seeking rewards. For example,

In the Quran, it was mentioned: “We shall lodge those who believed and did good deeds in lofty dwellings, in the Garden graced with flowing streams, there to remain. How excellent is the reward of those who labour” [29:58].