How To Figure Out Character Motivations

[AndreaStory90]

hey folks, i was just wondering how do you figure out characters' Motivations? seem to be a bit stuck on this at the moment.

[Taylor]

hey folks, i was just wondering how do you figure out characters' Motivations? seem to be a bit stuck on this at the moment.

I think of real life people I know, or real life people I have researched. What drives them? And once I create characters their drive has to tie into the plot and theme.

If you are stuck, try thinking of what motivations they would need to fulfill your plot line. Can you share anything about your story? Maybe we can help.

[TheMightyAz]

It depends on what problems/hurdles you present them with. All you need is a character that needs to get to (c) but in doing so, has to get through (a) and (b). As long as you've got (c) in mind, (a) and (b) should present themselves as you write.

[indianroads]

I start with a character worksheet. I write out their description (obviously), what sort of clothes they wear, history, and most importantly their drivers - what’s important to them, what they’re afraid of, what their goals are. That’s how I get to know them.

[JBF]

Find what they want.

Then find what they'll give up to have it.

[Llyralen]

hey folks, i was just wondering how do you figure out characters' Motivations? seem to be a bit stuck on this at the moment.

Are you at the beginning of your book? Do you know the plot? Or maybe you have a world built?
What themes do you like to read about? Redemption, forgiveness, betrayal, compassion, revenge, problem-solving? There are a bunch of others. Do you want romance in your story? Do you want adventure?

[ironpony]

I would say start with the theme, and whatever you want to happen to make the best point of your theme, have your characters act in a way, in which they will make those decisions to make the theme most effective.

[K.S. Crooks]

What is their overall goal. Then I go to what is the best way for them to achieve their goal vs the most likely way they will go about it. What are the consequences if they succeed or if they fail. I consider who or what is working in their favor and against them. Sometimes I make it that the characters doesn't know what's for their own good, so their motivation is actually not their best option.

[JJBuchholz]

I think of real life people I know, or real life people I have researched. What drives them? And once I create
characters their drive has to tie into the plot and theme.

I do that as well, and I also incorporate some of myself into certain characters, and use them to show scenarios of what I could do/could
be in a situation, as well as explore options I wouldn't normally think about. I let my characters explore the 'what ifs' and the human
element of everything, which also helps to give me insight from a different perspective.

-JJB

[luckyscars]

You don't have a character unless and until you have motivations. You merely have an avatar, a sentient doll.