How Does Extrinsic Motivation Work?įor extrinsic motivational techniques to work (and for them to help you break bad habits), you must be consistent in providing a reward if the action is completed. In this article, I’m going to look into what is extrinsic motivation, look at the differences between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, and look into extrinsic motivation examples in the workplace, in the classroom, and at home. From being given a small (often sweet) reward for finishing your homework on time, to telling yourself you’ll finally purchase that new pair of shoes or video game if you get the promotion at work that you’ve been working towards, extrinsic motivation is focused on gaining external rewards for a job well done. To be extrinsically motivated means that you become more motivated to do something when external rewards are placed in front of you.Įxtrinsic motivation is a common motivational factor in all of our lives from a young age. These rewards can include money, fame, praise, and recognized educational achievement. Extrinsic motivation is a behavior driven by a desire to receive external rewards.
