What is termed when personal motivation does not align with mission goals?

The term "inappropriate motivation" is used to describe a situation where an individual's personal drive or reasons for performing a task do not match the goals or objectives of the mission at hand. This disconnect can lead to inefficiencies, decreased performance, and potentially detrimental outcomes, as personal motivations may steer focus away from what is required for mission success.

For instance, if a pilot is motivated primarily by personal achievement or recognition rather than the team or mission objectives, this can lead to decisions that prioritize personal success over the safety and effectiveness of the entire operation. When the objectives of an individual diverge from the collective mission, it can result in decreased morale and an inability to function cohesively as a unit, underscoring the importance of aligning personal motivations with overarching goals in team-oriented environments like aerospace operations.

While the other terms may imply a lack of alignment, "inappropriate motivation" specifically emphasizes the qualitative aspect of personal drive being unsuitable for the mission context, making it the most precise term for this scenario.