Abstract

We present a comprehensive theory of spiritual intrinsic motivation, integrating self-determination theory (SDT) and spiritual work. Spiritual intrinsic motivation can be considered an individual-level construct influenced by motivationally focused individuals regarding career perception and behavior to change. Specifically, we evaluate three components of SDT: autonomy, competence, and relatedness. Based on previous studies, this theory still needs to be reviewed by reviewing aspects of basic human needs that require spirituality. This study proposes a new concept, spiritual intrinsic motivation, as a complement to SDT, which triggers work engagement. We empirically test this in a sample of 113 staff in government offices and provide evidence that spiritual intrinsic motivation can be triggered by career as calling and individual readiness to change. Furthermore, the outcome of spiritual intrinsic motivation is work engagement. Additionally, spiritual autonomy is the dimension of spiritual intrinsic motivation that has the most substantial influence on work engagement.