How Does Types of Motivation: Intrinsic and Extrinsic Work?

Motivation is what pushes you to do things, and there are two main kinds: intrinsic and extrinsic.

Imagine you're playing with your favorite toy, that’s intrinsic motivation. You’re doing it because you love the toy, or because it makes you feel happy inside. It's like when you want to draw a picture just because you enjoy coloring, no one is telling you to do it, and you don’t get candy for finishing.

Now think about when your mom says, "If you clean up your room, I'll give you ice cream." That’s extrinsic motivation. You’re doing something not because you love it, but because you want the reward, in this case, ice cream! It's like when you finish a puzzle just to get a sticker at the end.

Sometimes, both kinds work together. If you like puzzles and also want that sticker, you’ll be extra happy and might even solve them faster!

• Intrinsic motivation is doing something because it feels good inside.
• Extrinsic motivation is doing something to get a reward or avoid a punishment.

Both can help you achieve your goals, like cleaning up your room, learning new things, or even becoming the best at a game!