Why External Motivation Is The Wrong Kind Of Motivation

Summary

This video focuses on shifting from external to internal motivation by emphasizing self-reflection and an internal locus of control. The speaker explains how pausing to reflect after actions, whether successful or not, helps engage internal motivational circuitry. By shifting from blaming external factors to focusing on personal actions and responsibility, individuals can develop intrinsic motivation. The video also explores how external rewards can undermine motivation and how self-reflection and personal accountability are key to fostering a more empowered, internally driven mindset.

Takeaways

• 😀 Reflection is key to building internal motivation. Regardless of the outcome, it's important to pause and reflect on the process to engage your internal motivational circuitry.
• 😀 Success or failure doesn't matter; the focus should be on turning on the brain's internal motivation system through reflection and self-awareness.
• 😀 The key to internal motivation is focusing on the process and not external results. This helps develop a deeper connection to your own growth and learning.
• 😀 Intrinsic motivation involves self-reflection, so asking yourself what went well or wrong after any action helps in recalibrating the brain.
• 😀 Be cautious of negative emotional reactions (like shame or fear) that arise from external factors and prevent self-reflection from a constructive angle.
• 😀 Extrinsic motivation often stems from avoiding negative emotions or external pressures. Internal motivation, on the other hand, is about engaging with oneself and the process.
• 😀 Locus of control refers to whether you perceive yourself or external factors as responsible for your life outcomes. Developing an internal locus of control is essential for intrinsic motivation.
• 😀 People with an internal locus of control believe they can influence outcomes through effort, while those with an external locus often attribute results to external forces like luck or others' actions.
• 😀 Shifting from an external to an internal locus of control helps in overcoming feelings of helplessness and fosters a more empowered mindset.
• 😀 Recognizing and adjusting moments of external attribution (like blaming others for your situation) helps in strengthening your internal motivation and sense of personal responsibility.

Q & A

What is the difference between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation as explained in the video?

Intrinsic motivation comes from within, where actions are driven by personal values, interest, and enjoyment, while extrinsic motivation is driven by external rewards or avoiding negative outcomes, such as approval from others or material incentives.

How can pausing and reflecting after taking action help improve motivation?

Pausing and reflecting helps engage the internal motivational circuitry of the brain, regardless of success or failure. The act of reflection itself helps shift focus from external rewards to internal motivation and self-improvement.

What should you focus on when reflecting after completing a task, whether successful or not?

When reflecting, focus on internal factors. If you succeed, reflect on what actions contributed to that success. If you fail, focus on what can be improved for next time. The goal is to engage with your internal motivation, not to dwell on the outcome.

Why is it important to avoid negative emotions, such as shame or fear, during reflection?

Negative emotions, like shame or fear, are linked to extrinsic motivation and can hinder personal growth. These emotions often stem from external judgment or the desire to avoid negative consequences. Instead, reflection should be a constructive process focused on improvement.

What is 'locus of control' and how does it relate to motivation?

Locus of control refers to the belief about whether outcomes in life are controlled by one's actions (internal locus) or by external factors (external locus). People with an internal locus believe they have control over their outcomes, leading to stronger intrinsic motivation, while those with an external locus may feel powerless and dependent on external circumstances.

How does an external locus of control affect motivation?

An external locus of control leads to a reliance on outside factors to explain success or failure, which can undermine motivation. People with this mindset often believe they have no control over their circumstances, making them more dependent on external validation or rewards.

What is the significance of shifting from an external to an internal locus of control?

Shifting to an internal locus of control helps individuals take responsibility for their actions and outcomes. This shift is crucial for developing intrinsic motivation, as it encourages personal growth, self-regulation, and a focus on internal rewards, rather than relying on external circumstances.

Can external factors ever be a valid reason for not achieving something, according to the video?

While external factors like nepotism or bad luck can sometimes play a role, the key takeaway is that individuals with an internal locus of control focus on what they can control. They ask themselves what they could have done differently to improve their chances, rather than attributing failure solely to external circumstances.

How can noticing and addressing external locus of control thoughts help in becoming intrinsically motivated?

Noticing and addressing external locus of control thoughts, such as blaming external factors (e.g., 'dating is a mess'), helps individuals shift focus back to their own actions and responsibilities. By doing so, they take charge of their circumstances and foster intrinsic motivation.

What practical steps can someone take to foster intrinsic motivation based on the ideas in the video?

To foster intrinsic motivation, focus on pausing and reflecting on your actions, shift your locus of control to internal, and avoid relying on external rewards or validation. By consistently asking yourself what you can improve and focusing on your own growth, you can cultivate a more internally-driven approach to achieving goals.