Motivation

Growing up, I was a very extrinsically motivated person. My parents would always trying to get me to try new things and I always asked “What do I get out of it?,” hoping for something materialistic and monetary in return for doing even the most basic of tasks, such as going outside. My parents were always trying to get me out of my comfort zone, and eventually when trying to get me to donate to charity or learn an instrument, but I would always look at the materialistic side of things. My parents fed into it and spoiled me for a while, but I was classically conditioned to expect something in return for trying something new. My parents got tired of doing this, and when I still asked that same question they would respond with something along the lines of “happiness knowing you did something positive.”

I would refuse to do something unless I got something physical out of it. I missed out on many opportunities because of this mindset. I was very unhappy growing up. I didn’t have many friends, any hobbies, or things to be proud of. However, this was my fault. I didn’t see the non materialistic side of things, and as a result of this, I think that was why I was unhappy.

I use the word internal and external to best remember the terms intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. Extrinsic motivation is when you are motivated to do something because of an external reward. And while in most cases external rewards usually involve money or objects, the term also refers to things like fame or power. I think a job would be the best example of extrinsic motivation. People work to make money, and in some jobs move up the position ladder. The desire to earn these things reflect in one's job performance. Of course, this does not apply to everyone. Some people genuinely enjoy their job.

Extrinsic motivation can actually be a good thing. People need money to have a decent life. Money doesn’t buy happiness, but generally the person living in a house is a happier than the homeless person. A lot of people hate their jobs, but they go anyways because they know they need to pay the bills.

However, it is been scientifically proven that there are several factors to happiness. Genetics and extrinsic motivators do play a role, however, positive psychology has proven that the most important factor in determining one’s level of happiness come from their level of intrinsic motivation. Intrinsic motivators are internal rewards. This mean just doing the action itself is motivating because it provides one with happiness and satisfaction. Examples of intrinsic motivators would be volunteering, charity work, hobbies, and exercising.

Recently, I have been a lot more happier. Nobody is really forcing me to do anything now since I’m 20. I’m choosing to go to school and actually study. I am doing it because it is something I want to do. I work out (although it doesn’t look like it) to feel better in general. I meditate and do yoga to calm me down. And nobody is forcing me to do these these. All of the are examples of intrinsic motivation. There is no external reward for doing these things (besides getting a degree.) In some cases you actually have to pay to do these things. But I am learning you need to be intrinsically motivated to be happy in life.