Two of the most common motivation types are intrinsic motivation and extrinsic motivation.
Intrinsic motivation is when someone is motivated internally to do something such as; have a hobby they want to be good at, or to achieve something. For example; if someone wants to do a good job in their office, they could basically motivate them self for an internal gratification other than wanting something in return for a job well done, they do a good job because they feel better inside if they do, and usually have fun doing what ever it is they are doing.
Extrinsic motivation is any external factor that might motivate someone to achieve any goal they might have or to do anything such as a job. An example could be; advancement in a job, or a raise in pay. When you are doing something with extrinsic motivation, it seems that some may end up not really caring about the job that they are doing or the performing, but the reward they could get in the end, which could be good and bad at the same time. A supervisor might get the work done by the employees but the job may be sloppy or poor.
An example from experience I have had with intrinsic motivation is the fact that I am going back to school. This is not only to make myself feel better about myself (for not staying in school when I was younger), but I also want to set a good example for my children.
An example from experience with extrinsic motivation is many years ago when I worked as a waitress, the company would give a raise after you were at the company so long and passing a test. The reward system was called Par I, par II...Etc. If you pass the tests, you were given a raise and a star added to your apron.