Understanding the Two Types of Motivation
At the heart of every action we take lies a motivation. Whether we’re working toward a promotion, going for a run, or learning a new skill, our drive can stem from two very different sources: intrinsic or extrinsic motivation.
Intrinsic motivation comes from within. It’s the desire to do something because it’s personally rewarding—because it aligns with your values, sparks your curiosity, or brings you joy. Think of reading a book for the love of learning or creating art because it fulfills you.
Extrinsic motivation, on the other hand, comes from outside of you. It’s fueled by a desire to gain a reward or avoid punishment. This could look like studying to get a good grade, working overtime to earn a bonus, or following rules to gain approval.
Both types of motivation are valid and can be powerful in different contexts. But understanding the deeper impact each has on our long-term well-being and fulfillment is essential for meaningful growth.
The Power of Intrinsic Motivation
When you’re intrinsically motivated, the reward is in the process itself. You don’t need praise, money, or recognition to keep going—you continue because it feels aligned, satisfying, and real.
It Cultivates Passion and Purpose
Intrinsic motivation is deeply connected to personal values and passion. When your actions are driven by what matters to you, you tap into a source of energy that’s sustainable and joyful. You’re more likely to enter flow states, stay committed, and feel a greater sense of purpose.
It Leads to Long-Term Fulfillment
Unlike extrinsic rewards, which tend to be short-lived, intrinsic motivation offers long-term satisfaction. When you’re motivated by internal goals, such as growth, learning, or creativity, your sense of achievement becomes more meaningful.
It Builds Self-Trust and Authenticity
Acting from intrinsic motivation strengthens your relationship with yourself. You begin to trust your inner compass and make decisions based on what’s true for you—not what others expect. Over time, this builds confidence, self-awareness, and authenticity.
When Extrinsic Motivation Works
While intrinsic motivation is ideal for long-term growth, extrinsic motivation has its place—especially when tasks are unfamiliar, unenjoyable, or require discipline.
It Can Spark Initial Action
External rewards can be useful when you’re trying to build a new habit or push through resistance. For example, setting a reward for completing a tough workout or using deadlines to stay productive can be effective in the short term.
It Provides Structure and Accountability
In work or academic settings, extrinsic motivation can provide structure. Recognition, grades, bonuses, and promotions are all systems that encourage performance. While they shouldn’t be the sole motivators, they can complement internal drive.
It Helps in Routine or Necessary Tasks
Let’s be honest—not every task will feel fulfilling. For things that need to get done but don’t offer intrinsic satisfaction (like paperwork or chores), extrinsic motivation can help us stay on track.
The Hidden Costs of Relying Too Much on Extrinsic Motivation
Although extrinsic motivation has its benefits, relying on it too heavily can have downsides, especially when it becomes the primary way you measure success or self-worth.
It Can Undermine Internal Drive
Studies show that when people are rewarded for something they already enjoy, their intrinsic motivation can decrease. Over time, they begin to associate the activity with the reward, not the internal joy it brings. This phenomenon is known as the overjustification effect.
It Encourages Comparison and Burnout
When your worth is tied to outcomes—like accolades, salary, or social media likes—you’re more likely to compare yourself to others and feel like you’re never doing enough. This constant chase can lead to stress, anxiety, and burnout.
It Disconnects You from Your True Desires
The more you seek validation from external sources, the harder it becomes to hear your own voice. You may find yourself climbing a ladder you never chose or pursuing goals that don’t actually fulfill you.
Striking a Healthy Balance
Motivation doesn’t have to be either/or. In fact, the most effective and sustainable drive often comes from a blend of both intrinsic and extrinsic forces.
Use Extrinsic Rewards to Build Intrinsic Habits
External motivators can be a great starting point. Use them to build momentum while staying mindful of your long-term goals. Over time, aim to shift your focus inward—find joy, meaning, or purpose in the process.
Regularly Reflect on Your “Why”
Pause often to ask yourself: Why am I doing this? If your answer is purely external (e.g., for approval, money, or image), consider how you might reconnect with a deeper intention. Even routine tasks can take on new meaning when aligned with personal values.
Define Success on Your Own Terms
Instead of measuring success by external milestones alone, consider how your actions make you feel. Are you learning, growing, and staying true to yourself? That inner fulfillment is often the clearest sign you’re on the right path.
Reconnecting with Intrinsic Motivation
When you feel disconnected or stuck, the key may lie in returning to your inner motivation. Here are a few ways to reignite that fire:
Revisit Your Values
Take time to reflect on what truly matters to you. What lights you up? What do you stand for? When your actions reflect your core values, motivation flows more naturally.
Do Something Just for the Joy of It
Not everything needs to be productive. Give yourself permission to engage in activities that bring you joy, without expecting anything in return. Creativity, play, and curiosity are all powerful motivators when they come with no strings attached.
Set Meaningful Goals
Align your goals with your growth—not just rewards. Ask yourself: What will this teach me? Who will I become in the process? These deeper motivations are far more sustainable than surface-level outcomes.
How Motivation Shapes Personal Growth
Motivation doesn’t just impact what we do—it shapes who we become. Whether you’re setting a new goal, trying to change a habit, or moving through a life transition, knowing what drives you can make all the difference.
When you tap into intrinsic motivation, you create change that sticks. You grow not because someone told you to, but because you’re called to become more of who you are. That’s where transformation lives.
Signs You’re Living from Intrinsic Motivation
- You feel energized by your goals, not drained by them.
- You enjoy the process, not just the results.
- You take action even when no one is watching.
- You’re more focused on who you’re becoming than what you’re achieving.
- You feel aligned with your values and choices.
If you resonate with these, you’re likely rooted in intrinsic motivation—and you’re building a foundation for lasting growth.
Reclaim Your Drive from Within
You don’t need to wait for permission, applause, or the perfect conditions to move forward. The most powerful motivation already lives inside you. It’s in your curiosity, your courage, your desire to grow.
If you’ve been relying on external validation to feel worthy, let this be your reminder: the most meaningful change begins from within. You have the ability to create, evolve, and lead yourself—not because someone told you to, but because you’re ready.
Begin Your Journey Toward Authentic Motivation
Real, lasting growth begins when your drive comes from within. If you’re ready to stop chasing approval and start aligning with what truly matters to you, take the next step. Visit Kari Ghanem’s website to explore how deeper self-awareness and mindset support can help you build a life driven by authenticity, passion, and purpose. Your next breakthrough begins not with pressure, but with alignment.
FAQs
Most clients notice shifts within the first few sessions, but long-term results depend on your commitment and consistency.
No, mindset coaching focuses more on present and future growth rather than deep psychological healing.
Absolutely. Many exercises are aimed at building confidence, reducing fear, and rewiring anxious thought patterns.
That depends on your comfort level. One-on-one offers deeper personalization, while group sessions can be motivating and cost-effective.
Visit Kari Ghanem’s coaching website or social media profiles to schedule a free discovery call and start your mindset transformation journey today.
