Definitionv1
Progress principle: the psychological mechanism by which
Progress principle: the psychological mechanism by which making small, consistent advances on meaningful work generates positive emotions, higher motivation, and increased engagement, with the subjective experience of progress being more impactful than objective achievement
Why This Is a Definition
This definition establishes the precise semantic boundary of 'progress principle' by specifying its core mechanism (small advances creating positive psychological outcomes) and its key differentiator (subjective experience over objective achievement). It's distinct from general motivation theories and focuses on the specific psychological process described in Amabile and Kramer's research.