Are you a self-starter? Is it easy for you to get the wheels turning without extra help or reward?
Why do you do what you do? What gets you up in the morning?
I know, I know… a lot of questions. But isn’t it the ability to process through and think on such things that help us become the highest-performing versions of ourselves? Certainly, if you’ve never thought about what motivates you, you will have an awful time getting motivated!
Ok, end of a rabbit trail.
Speaking of rabbits, remember watching Bugs Bunny? He was always driven by the carrot! From that, we could say that Bugs Bunny was extrinsically motivated.
Extrinsic Motivation is commonly defined as “reward-driven behavior” (Healthline.com). In this form of motivation, rewards such as money, power, or fame are used as motivation to perform or execute certain tasks. The common problem with extrinsic motivation is, it comes from somewhere else. Any kind of motivation that comes from an external source will be fleeting. An example of extrinsic motivation would be completing a series of tasks at work in order to receive a raise.
So, what’s the alternative? Well, to go back to the questions I asked earlier; having a strong “why” for doing something can sometimes come from external sources but, most often comes from Intrinsic Motivation.
Intrinsic Motivation is “the act of doing something without any obvious external rewards” (Healthline.com). Often in this form of motivation, the reward comes from a sense of enjoyment, interest, or gratitude from performing or executing daily tasks. An example of intrinsic motivation would be going for a run simply because you enjoy running or being in nature.
Here’s how to create long-enduring motivation, enjoyment, and performance through intrinsic motivation:
- Rethink reward.
- If possible, create a sense of autonomy in your work environment.
- Practice visualization on a moment in time when you felt proud of grateful.
- Trust yourself to succeed!
- Take time to think and gain clarity on what’s important to you.
- Develop a clear personal vision and mission statement.
- Gamify your work or tasks.
- Take time each day or week to do something you enjoy doing.
- Find ways to create feedback for your work.
- Create a system such as day-scripting or daily checklists.
There are literally hundreds of ways to promote intrinsic motivation. Find something that works best for you! We are all on our own unique journeys toward peak performance. It’s important to remember that something that works well for someone else may not be a good fit for you.
Finally, and most importantly, develop your “why.” This is a crucial piece of becoming an intrinsically motivated peak-performer. Understanding on a deep level why you do what you do will instantly raise your motivation and performance.
Questions? We’re here to help! Visit www.tigerpi.com to request a free consult today.
https://www.healthline.com/health/intrinsic-motivation
https://www.opencolleges.edu.au/informed/features/intrinsic-motivation/