Since ancient times, people have been motivated to struggle with various life expectations. Many people want to change at least one thing in their lives. Understanding what motivation means to you can help you find ways to motivate yourself.
Difference Between Intrinsic Motivation And Extrinsic Motivation
What Is The Best Definition Of Intrinsic Motivation?
Intrinsic motivation refers to motivation that comes from within. When you’re intrinsically motivated, you engage in an activity to get personal satisfaction.
What Is The Best Definition Of Extrinsic Motivation?
Extrinsic motivation refers to motivation that comes from the outside. When you’re extrinsically motivated, you do something to gain an external reward.
Intrinsic Motivation Examples
You’ve probably done things you enjoyed without needing anyone to tell you. That’s intrinsic motivation.
Some examples of intrinsic motivation are:
- You will participate in a sport because it’s fun, not because you’re playing for a reward.
- Learning a new language because you want to try something new, not because your job wants you to.
- Spending time with someone because you like to be in their company, not because they can help you make more friends or be more popular.
- Cleaning because you like your home to be neat, not just to keep your partner happy.
- Playing cards because you like the challenge, not because you want to earn money from it.
- You will go out for a run because you find it relaxing not to win a competition.
- Take on more responsibility at work because you enjoy being challenged and feeling accomplished rather than getting a raise or promotion.
- You will paint a picture because you feel calm when you paint, not because you’re selling your paints to earn money.
Intrinsic Motivation Factors
The factors that promote intrinsic motivation can help you see how it works and why it can be beneficial. Some of the factors are:
- Curiosity – The feeling of wanting to learn or know about new things will motivate you to explore and learn for the pleasure of learning.
- Recognition – We all want to be noticed and valued. This feeling motivates us to do what we do.
- Cooperation – Working with others satisfies our need for belonging. We also feel personal satisfaction when we help others and work together to achieve a shared goal.
Let Your Inner Motivation Lead the Way
Intrinsic motivation can be applied to all aspects of life. Research has shown that motivation from within is an effective way to improve performance. By changing the focus to the internal rewards of a task, such as satisfaction and enjoyment, you can better motivate yourself and others.