Examples of religious conviction as a motivating factor can be seen often in society. Some people point to religious texts as a factor behind getting involved in charitable work while others use religion as a reason behind committing crimes or acts of terror. According to the website Science Daily, studies have shown that religious people might be better at setting and achieving both short- and long-term goals. The theory behind this is that religion often instills a sense of self-control in people via activities such as meditation and prayer. Religion runs along the same lines as other internal motivating factors. While a person might not necessarily be religious, she might hold morality, intelligence, duty and philanthropy in higher esteem.
Assistance in a person's economic situation is often a powerful motivating factor. Most people find money either very important or extremely important in motivation. If someone is needed to make a stand in a professional environment, adequate financial compensation for the job performed might be what motivates the person in one direction over another.
A person might be motivated to make a stand on important issues by a certain level of fame. For example, a person might make the decision to run for a political office based on the level of fame that comes with such a public position. Some people shy away from the spotlight, but others love an audience and might do something they normally would not do if it brought a certain amount of attention.
Some people like to be in control of situations. In order to maintain a leadership role, as well as to prove they have control over a situation, they might take action on an issue that they otherwise would not. These people generally like to be in control of others, and have a difficult time handing over control of certain projects. They like to give orders, and could create problems just for the sake of solving them.