Epstein Motivation Competencies Inventory for Individuals (EMCI-i)

© 2007, 2008 Dr. Robert Epstein  v. 1.2

You're about to take the unabridged version of the Epstein Motivation Competencies Inventory for Individuals (or EMCI-i). This scientifically-validated test is an inventory of 8 types of skills that help people keep themselves motivated.


Most people are able to complete the test in less than 10 minutes, and there are no right or wrong answers. Just select the response that seems best. After you answer the questions, you'll be given a detailed report that will give you your scores and explain what they mean. This is just the start; once you know your EMCI scores, there are many avenues you might pursue to improve your motivation skills. Games and exercises to strengthen such skills can be found in Dr. Epstein's book, The Big Book of Motivation Games, which also includes an abridged, self-scorable version of the EMCI.


If you're a manager, teacher, parent, or supervisor, you might also want to take the manager's version of the EMCI, which looks at 10 types of skills that will help you motivate other people.


Before we get to the inventory itself, we'll ask you a few basic questions about yourself. Demographic information is being collected for research purposes only and will be kept strictly confidential.


To make sure the scoring is accurate, be sure to fill in all the blanks!

First name and last initial (required): Age:
Highest Degree: None High School Associates College Masters Doctorate	Race/Ethnicity: White Black Hispanic Asian American Indian Other	Gender: Male Female

Generally speaking, how motivated are you?
Rarely   1  2  3  4  5  6  7  8  9  10  Frequently

How satisfied are you with your life?
Not at all   1  2  3  4  5  6  7  8  9  10  Extremely satisfied

How much success have you had in your professional life?
Low   1  2  3  4  5  6  7  8  9  10  High

Have you had any training intended to boost your motivation?
No  Yes

If so, approximately how many hours of training have you had?


OPTIONAL: Where did you receive this training?


1. I often ask others for encouragement and support.
Agree             Disagree

2. I often try to visualize myself performing at my best.
Agree             Disagree

3. One can reduce stress by making both short-term and long-term plans.
Agree             Disagree

4. I have trouble keeping promises.
Agree             Disagree

5. I use many different methods to monitor my behavior.
Agree             Disagree

6. I try to look at negative situations in positive ways.
Agree             Disagree

7. I always keep my promises.
Agree             Disagree

8. I avoid substances that might damage my body or brain.
Agree             Disagree

9. I try to put myself in situations in which I'm rewarded for my efforts.
Agree             Disagree

10. I often try to identify and change my irrational beliefs.
Agree             Disagree

11. I use ergonomic devices to help me perform at my peak.
Agree             Disagree

12. I rarely set goals for myself.
Agree             Disagree

13. Sometimes I make promises to other people in order to control my own impulses.
Agree             Disagree

14. I schedule meetings with others to keep myself productive.
Agree             Disagree

15. Even small environmental changes can improve motivation.
Agree             Disagree

16. I try to work with people who are upbeat and energetic.
Agree             Disagree

17. People can boost their motivation by choosing to work in supportive settings.
Agree             Disagree

18. I always record my progress when working on a tough project.
Agree             Disagree

19. When working, I usually monitor some aspect of my performance.
Agree             Disagree

20. Making commitments to other people is a great way to manage one's behavior.
Agree             Disagree

21. I always get a good night's sleep.
Agree             Disagree

22. I spend a few minutes each day to plan the day.
Agree             Disagree

23. I rarely ask others for encourgement or support.
Agree             Disagree

24. I try to see the humor in tough or stressful situations.
Agree             Disagree

25. I've made a plan for my long-term future.
Agree             Disagree

26. When working, I seldom monitor any aspects of my performance.
Agree             Disagree

27. I regularly set goals for myself.
Agree             Disagree

28. Goal setting usually improves performance.
Agree             Disagree

29. I try to surround myself with people who appreciate my abilities.
Agree             Disagree

30. I often try to identify and remove sources of stress in my life.
Agree             Disagree

31. I often consume special foods and drinks to boost my energy.
Agree             Disagree

32. Monitoring one's performance tends to improve that performance.
Agree             Disagree

33. I rarely do vigorous exercise.
Agree             Disagree

34. I set aside time daily to relax and take a break from my obligations.
Agree             Disagree

35. Planning--both short-term and long-term--is a great way of reducing stress.
Agree             Disagree

36. I frequently try to picture a bright future for myself.
Agree             Disagree

37. I look for humor in even the toughest situations.
Agree             Disagree

38. I have adequate shelf, file, and drawer space to serve my needs.
Agree             Disagree

39. I do aerobic exercise several times a week.
Agree             Disagree

40. Sometimes a small change in the environment can boost motivation.
Agree             Disagree