which of these is an example of internal motivations

Daniel Parker

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25-02-2025

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Understanding Internal vs. External Motivation: Which is an Example of Internal Motivation?

Choosing between internal and external motivation can be tricky. This article will clarify the difference and provide examples, focusing on identifying which scenarios represent internal motivation.

What is Internal Motivation?

Internal motivation stems from within. It's the drive to do something based on personal satisfaction, interest, or enjoyment. It's not about external rewards or pressures; it's about the intrinsic value of the activity itself. You're doing something because you want to, not because someone else is telling you to or offering a reward.

What is External Motivation?

Conversely, external motivation comes from outside sources. This could be anything from money and praise to avoiding punishment or meeting expectations set by others. The focus is on the external reward or consequence, not the inherent value of the task.

Examples to Illustrate Internal vs. External Motivation

Let's look at some examples to clarify the difference. We'll focus on scenarios that highlight internal motivation.

Scenario 1: The Avid Gardener

• External Motivation: A gardener might be motivated by the possibility of winning a prize at a local flower show for their best blooms. (External reward)
• Internal Motivation: A gardener who tends their garden simply for the joy of nurturing plants, observing their growth, and spending time outdoors is intrinsically motivated. The satisfaction comes from the activity itself.

Scenario 2: The Dedicated Athlete

• External Motivation: An athlete might be motivated by a large sponsorship deal or the desire to win a gold medal. (External reward)
• Internal Motivation: An athlete who trains diligently because they love the challenge, the physical exertion, and the sense of accomplishment they feel when pushing their limits is internally motivated. Their driving force comes from within.

Scenario 3: The Passionate Writer

• External Motivation: A writer might be motivated by deadlines, the promise of publication, or financial gain. (External reward)
• Internal Motivation: A writer who writes primarily for the love of crafting stories, exploring ideas, and expressing themselves is internally motivated. They find fulfillment in the creative process itself.

Scenario 4: The Lifelong Learner

• External Motivation: A student might be motivated by the need to get good grades to secure a scholarship. (External reward)
• Internal Motivation: A student who pursues knowledge simply for the sake of learning and personal growth is internally motivated. The desire to expand their understanding and knowledge is the driving force.

Identifying Internal Motivation

The key to identifying internal motivation is to look for the underlying reason for the action. Is it the inherent satisfaction derived from the activity itself or the anticipation of an external reward or punishment? If the former, it’s internal motivation.

Conclusion:

Internal motivation is a powerful force driving personal growth and achievement. Understanding the difference between internal and external motivation is crucial in setting meaningful goals and finding lasting fulfillment in our pursuits. By focusing on activities we genuinely enjoy and find intrinsically rewarding, we tap into our internal drive and experience a more profound sense of accomplishment.