There are two main types of motivation, intrinsic and extrinsic

2 min read

 

There are two main types of motivation — intrinsic and extrinsic — both are powerful forces in shaping how people think and behave. 

 

The difference? Extrinsic motivation comes from external sources such as rewards, accolades and grades; whereas intrinsic motivation comes from within. 

 

If you want to increase your sense of motivation and satisfaction, dialling up intrinsic motivation is a great way to go. How do you do that? Well, intrinsic motivation comes from 3 basic psychological drives — competence, autonomy and relatedness.

 

To remember these, just picture a car, because they spell the word CAR — C A R.  

 

1.  Competence: people have a need to build their competence and develop mastery over tasks that are important to them. 

 

2. Autonomy: people have a need to feel that they are the masters of their own destiny and that they have at least some control over       their lives; most importantly, people have a need to feel that they are in control of their own behavior. 

 

3. Relatedness (AKA Connection): people need to have a sense of belonging and connectedness with others.  

 

Think of the area you want to feel more motivated in. How can you grow your competence in this? How can you own your choices and behaviours more? How can you connect with and contribute to others more? 

 

Increase any of these, and you will experience more intrinsic motivation in what you do.