Here we are again at the beginning of a new semester. The spring term can feel especially challenging, as it often arrives together with the lingering cold, short days and gray skies of winter. During this time of year, motivation can be just as elusive as sunshine after 6 p.m. So how do we find the energy to re-engage with the responsibilities and expectations of a new semester? If there were a simple, universal answer, the entire self-help industry might collapse overnight.
Motivation is not a one-size-fits-all concept. There are many types of motivation, but for the purposes of this article, we will focus on two: intrinsic and extrinsic motivation.
Intrinsic motivation comes from within, while extrinsic motivation is guided by external factors. Extrinsic motivation often shows up as the pursuit of a reward or the desire to avoid an undesirable outcome. Some individuals are more strongly motivated by avoiding punishment or negative consequences. For example, studying to earn a good grade or to avoid failing a course.
Education is frequently structured around extrinsic motivators. Systems are often designed to encourage students to avoid failure and strive for rewards like grades, credentials or approval. While this approach can be effective, it is important to recognize that an overemphasis on avoidance and outcomes can sometimes push the joy of learning into the background.
Intrinsic motivation, by definition, is a bit more fun. It is driven by enjoyment, curiosity, satisfaction, or personal interest. When motivation is intrinsic, the activity itself feels meaningful or fulfilling, rather than simply a means to an end.
Ideally, you have chosen an educational path that aligns with your interests and reflects something you genuinely want for yourself. Shifting your focus from the grade to the learning process can make the work feel less daunting.
Engaging with the process, not just the outcome, can still lead to strong academic performance while also creating a deeper sense of purpose and connection.
So, is one type of motivation better than the other?
Much like a game of cards, this is the dealer’s choice. Each of us is motivated differently, shaped by a unique blend of personality, experience and circumstance. Most of us rely on a combination of intrinsic and extrinsic motivation at different times. The key is learning to recognize what motivates you, and how to work with it, especially during seasons when motivation feels hardest to come by.
Whatever your motivation, I wish you a wonderful and successful spring semester. I have included some questions you may wish to consider regarding what motivates you!