Abstract: Subconscious work motivation is defined as an unaware automatic process, which is activated by external environmental features and in turn leads to efforts. The automatic processes include automatic evaluation, nonconscious behavioral mimicry, attitude activation, automatic trait and stereotype activation, and subconscious goal pursuit. In terms of internal mechanism, mirror neurons theory can explain nonconscious behavioral mimicry, and nonconscious behavioral choice model can explain subconscious goal pursuit. Future studies should distinguish the relationship between subconscious and conscious work motivation, develop new research methods, and explore more deeply the internal mechanisms of subconscious work motivation.

Key words: subconscious, work motivation, organizational behavior