Another MAP: Motivation, Ability, Prompt
What's needed in order to take action
Hi! I’ve got another note with the same acronym as yesterday's sticky but a different purpose. Today’s sticky is:
Motivation
Ability
Prompt
=
taking action
This is the Fogg Behavior Model by BJ Fogg1. The gist is this: In order for someone to do something, they must want to do it (motivation), be able to do it (ability), and remember to do it (be prompted).
A prompt can be intentional like a to-do list or serendipitous like seeing something that makes you think “Oh, that reminds me I need to _____”.
Prompts work only if someone wants to do it and they are able to do it. Here’s a chart that explains this visually.
Website pop-ups are how marketers prompt you and make is easier (ability) for you to take action. If the suggested action (e.g. Sign up for 15% off) is something you want (motivation), then you might appreciate the prompt. If not, the prompt is really annoying. And multiple prompts get in the way of ability/ease.
Sometimes I want someone else to do something but I’m hesitant to ask. My hesitation is usually rooted in thoughts/beliefs that the person won’t want to do it or can’t do it without help. MAP gives me a framework: How might I make the request worth it and as easy as possible for the other person?
What do you think?
Love,
Kate
Check out Fogg’s book Tiny Habits about breaking down goals into small pieces that make it easier to develop habits.