While reading one of Joel Spolsky's old entries about what strategies not to decide on when producing software, I came across another reference:
For Best Results, Forget the Bonus
Absolutely interesting. While I have never really placed a finger on this issue hard enough to give it considerable contemplation, it does ring various bells of truth within my own system - material and financial rewards are very seldom the object of my desires when it comes to working and accomplishing tasks.
It may also be interesting to note that Dale Carnegie encourages rewards over punishment when it comes to making people like you better (and in effect working for you better). Of course, not to say that showing sincere appreciation for the efforts of others is to be discouraged. Please don't be an ingrate.
The point that is highlighted very clearly in the article is that true motivation to perform excellently in jobs is rarely a monetary concern. Yes, you may ask whether David Beckham would still play football if his salary was not rated at PPM (pounds per minute), and I can safely say "yes" (but no guarantee since I am not him). It is first and foremost a rudimentary love for playing football that brings him up to that level in the first place. Ask him to play basketball or cricket with equally high rewards and you are likely to get a rejection.
Indeed, it is the content of the work. I drive alot of satisfication being able to achieve objectives and goals in the longer run, and more so if done with a group of capable peers who contributed equally to the effort. My work has to be satisfying in itself, not the end-remuneration. High monetary returns are really just that - a bonus. Otherwise, I would simply be a drug dealer.
What are your motivations?