The skill of being able to start and finish tasks rigorously is what solidifies your chances of being successful overall. But what kind of motivation is most important? Is it motivation that arises from outside the individual (extrinsic), or motivation that arises from inside the individual (intrinsic)?

Extrinsic & Intrinsic Motivation – What's the Difference?

What is extrinsic motivation?
Extrinsic motivation refers to the behaviour of individuals to perform tasks and learn new skills because of external rewards or avoidance of punishment. In this case, you engage in behaviour not because you enjoy it or because you find it appealing or satisfying, but in order to obtain something of value in return or avoid something unpleasant. Let's take a look at some extrinsic motivation examples:

- You study because you want to get good grades.
- You go to work because you want to earn money.
- You go to new places because you want to post it on Instagram.
- You obey the law because you fear punishment.
- You say that you want to be a doctor because you want to make your parents proud of you.
- You help someone because you hope for praise or reward.
- You clean your apartment because you do not want someone to criticise you.

What is intrinsic motivation?
Intrinsic motivation refers to the act of doing something because it's enjoyable and interesting to you, not because of any outside incentive or pressures, like rewards or punishments. In short, intrinsic motivation is performing an activity for its own sake rather than for some external reward or because of some external pressure.

Examples:
- You take photos because it's your hobby.
- You want to be a doctor because you enjoy studying and helping people.
- You walk the dog because it makes you relaxed and happy.
- You study a particular topic because you are curious about it.
- You play sports because you enjoy how they make you feel.
- You stay longer at work because you believe your work is important and meaningful.
- You travel because you love to explore different places and cultures.

The main difference between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation is that intrinsic motivation comes from within, and extrinsic motivation comes from outside. Each of these motivations has its pros and cons.

Take a look at the following videos, and learn more about extrinsic and intrinsic motivation, setting the right goals and how to stay motivated.