Conation is a psychological term that refers to the innate desire, intention, or volition to engage in behavior in order to achieve a specific goal or outcome. It encompasses the mental and physical striving, effort, and motivation to take action and pursue objectives.
Conation is a distinct aspect of human cognition, alongside cognition and affect. While cognition refers to the mental processes involved in acquiring knowledge and understanding, and affect pertains to the emotional and subjective experience, conation focuses on the active, volitional aspect of behavior and motivation.
Conation involves the conscious and unconscious motives, drives, and intentions that propel individuals to act and reach their desired aims. It encompasses both the initial decision-making process and the subsequent execution of behavior towards the target goal. It acknowledges that individuals have a sense of purpose and direction in their actions.
Conation has significant implications in various domains of life, such as education, business, and personal development. Understanding conation can provide insights into individuals' motivation, perseverance, and goal-directed behaviors. It plays a crucial role in determining success, as individuals with strong conation are more likely to actively pursue their objectives and persist in the face of obstacles.
In summary, conation refers to the inherent inclination, intention, and volition to engage in purposeful behavior in order to achieve desired goals. It encompasses the motivation, effort, and drive that individuals possess to take action and work towards their objectives.
