The Art of Motivation

Summary

This video explores the concept of motivation, defining it as the desire to initiate and maintain behaviors. It distinguishes between intrinsic motivation, driven by personal satisfaction and enjoyment, and extrinsic motivation, which focuses on external rewards. Research indicates that intrinsic motivation leads to greater long-term engagement, while relying too heavily on extrinsic rewards can diminish motivation. Strategies to enhance motivation include making tasks enjoyable and utilizing positive self-talk. Understanding these dynamics can help individuals cultivate a motivated mindset and achieve their goals more effectively.

Takeaways

• 😀 Motivation is defined as the desire or impetus to initiate and maintain a behavior.
• 🌟 There are two main types of motivation: intrinsic (driven by internal satisfaction) and extrinsic (driven by external rewards).
• 🎮 Intrinsic motivation occurs when the activity itself is enjoyable, such as playing video games for fun.
• 💰 Extrinsic motivation involves engaging in tasks for outcomes, like receiving praise, money, or other rewards.
• 📉 Relying solely on extrinsic rewards may lead to short-lived motivation, as shown in studies on New Year's resolutions.
• 🏋️‍♂️ High levels of intrinsic motivation for activities like exercise are linked to long-term engagement and persistence.
• 📚 Academic tasks can have both intrinsic and extrinsic motivators, such as curiosity and the desire for good grades.
• 🤔 The overjustification effect suggests that adding extrinsic rewards can diminish intrinsic motivation when the task is already enjoyable.
• 🎉 Extrinsic rewards can be useful for tedious tasks, providing justification to complete them.
• 🗣️ Positive self-talk can enhance motivation and help overcome barriers to starting tasks.

Q & A

What is the definition of motivation according to psychologists?

Psychologists define motivation as the desire or impetus to initiate and maintain a particular behavior, essentially the energy that drives you to take action.

What are the two broad categories of motivation?

The two broad categories of motivation are intrinsic motivation, which is driven by the enjoyment of the activity itself, and extrinsic motivation, which is driven by external rewards or outcomes.

Can you provide examples of intrinsic motivation?

Examples of intrinsic motivation include engaging in hobbies like playing video games or pursuing tasks that feel meaningful or satisfying, such as creating art.

What is an example of extrinsic motivation?

An example of extrinsic motivation is going to the dentist, which is not enjoyable but is motivated by the outcome of having clean, healthy teeth.

What did the 2017 study regarding New Year's resolutions reveal?

The 2017 study found that individuals who focused on the outcomes of their New Year's resolutions, driven by extrinsic motivation, were less likely to stick to their goals compared to those who enjoyed the process of pursuing their goals.

What is the overjustification effect?

The overjustification effect refers to the phenomenon where additional extrinsic motivators can undermine intrinsic motivation, leading to decreased performance and motivation overall.

How can combining intrinsic and extrinsic motivators affect motivation?

Combining intrinsic and extrinsic motivators can sometimes lead to lower overall motivation, as seen in a study of military cadets who performed worse when driven by both types of motivators compared to those driven by just one.

What strategies can help increase intrinsic motivation?

To enhance intrinsic motivation, one can make tasks more enjoyable by asking a friend to join in, incorporating fun elements, or listening to favorite music while working on the task.

How does self-talk impact motivation?

Self-talk can significantly impact motivation by influencing one's mindset and encouraging persistence in pursuing goals, making tasks feel more achievable.

Where can one find more actionable advice on motivation?

For more actionable, science-based advice on building strengths of heart, mind, and will, resources like TED-Ed are recommended.