Motivation plays a crucial role in shaping human behavior and performance. It influences why individuals initiate a task, how much effort they put in, and whether they continue when faced with challenges. In both learning environments and workplaces, understanding what drives people becomes essential for improving productivity, satisfaction, and outcomes.
Motivation generally comes from two major sources: internal satisfaction or external rewards. These form the basis for intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, two concepts that explain how people are encouraged to act, achieve, and stay committed to their goals.
Intrinsic Motivation
Intrinsic motivation is a type of motivation that arises from a person's internal needs and satisfaction with a task. For instance, a person may enjoy a particular activity personally or have a strong desire to acquire a skill. The following are some instances of intrinsic motivation:
- Reading a novel just for the enjoyment of the story.
- Exercising as a means of reducing stress.
- Cleaning the house makes someone feel more organized.
Extrinsic Motivation
Extrinsic motivation refers to a type of motivation that comes from external factors, usually ones that are financial in nature. For instance, an employee learns new skills in order to earn a promotion or to win praise. The following are some instances of extrinsic motivation:
- Getting ready for an exam by reading a book.
- Working out to reduce weight.
- Cleaning your house to prepare for guests.
Intrinsic Motivation vs Extrinsic Motivation
Intrinsic Motivation | Extrinsic Motivation |
|---|---|
Intrinsic motivation is a type of motivation that arises from a person's internal needs and satisfaction with a task. | Extrinsic motivation refers to a type of motivation that comes from external factors, usually ones that are financial in nature. |
| The main focus is on the action. | The main focus is on the outcome. |
The area of control is internal to the person. | The area of control is external to the person |
Basic psychological needs are satisfied. | Basic psychological needs are not satisfied. |
| Pleasant feeling (joy, relaxation, and freedom) is experienced. | Pressure and tension feelings (they have no direct control over societal acceptance) are experienced. |
The main purpose is to identify one's potential while also improving, fulfilling, and grooming oneself. | The main purpose is to obtain a reward or avoid a negative outcome. |
It is driven by its own desires and ambitions. | It is driven by external sources or other individuals. |
Intrinsic motivation can be intangible. For instance, pride. | Extrinsic motivation can be both tangible and intangible. For instance, money and pride. |