Embracing Intrinsic Motivation in Midlife

The Key to a Fulfilling Life

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What brings you the most joy? Think of those activities that you willingly engage in without needing reminders or external pushes. Whether it's reading, solving crossword puzzles, gardening, cooking, or playing a sport, these activities hold a special place in our hearts. However, have you ever wondered what would happen if you were paid to do something you love? The dynamics change – your intrinsic motivation, the internal desire to engage in the activity, might shift to extrinsic motivation, relying on external factors like money.

The Shift from Intrinsic to Extrinsic Motivation:

Decades ago, researchers conducted a groundbreaking study on young children, examining the impact of rewards on artistic activities (Lepper, 1973). The children were divided into three groups: Group A was told they would be rewarded for creating art, Group B received a reward if they created art, and Group C received no reward. The findings revealed that Group A, who was promised a reward, spent significantly less time creating art after introducing the extrinsic motivator, unlike Groups B and C, who continued at their original pace. This suggests that the promise of a reward disrupted the intrinsic motivation of Group A, transforming a beloved activity into a task.

Application in Adulthood:

The implications extend into adulthood, prompting reflection on our own motivations. Consider this. You are asked to volunteer in a soup kitchen. When I ask my class if they would be willing to do this, most raise their hand to say “yes.” No one raised their hand when I asked who would be willing to work at Starbucks for free. Their willingness to volunteer at a soup kitchen versus working at a restaurant for pay lies in motivation – intrinsic motivation fuels the joy of volunteering, while extrinsic motivation necessitates external rewards, making the activity feel like work.

Understanding Intrinsic Motivation:

Definition and Origin: Intrinsic motivation, as coined by Edward L. Deci, refers to the internal drive to engage in an activity for its inherent satisfaction rather than relying on external rewards or incentives. Deci's research demonstrated that individuals are more likely to persevere in activities they are intrinsically motivated to do.

Application in Giving Back:

Harnessing intrinsic motivation becomes a key aspect of contributing to the greater good. Whether through volunteering, pursuing a helping profession, engaging in cause-supporting activities, or seeking opportunities to make a difference, individuals can tap into their intrinsic motivation to positively impact others and society.

The Fulfillment of Giving Back:

1. Sense of Accomplishment: Giving back, driven by intrinsic motivation, provides a profound sense of accomplishment. Helping others overcome challenges or difficulties contributes to a feeling of fulfillment that goes beyond external rewards.

2. Connecting with Others: Engaging in activities that contribute to the greater good offers opportunities to connect with others. Individuals experience a sense of community and belonging by working together towards a common goal.

3. Boosting Self-esteem: Contributing to the well-being of others through intrinsic motivation boosts self-esteem. The act of making a difference in the world fosters a sense of pride and a belief in one's ability to contribute to something larger than oneself.

4. Increased Well-being: Research has consistently shown that engaging in activities that benefit others positively impacts one's well-being. Volunteering, for example, has been linked to increased life satisfaction, improved mental health, and even physical health benefits.

There is a delicate balance between doing what we love for the joy of it versus doing it for external rewards. The study by Lepper, Greene, and Nisbett illustrates how rewards can disrupt intrinsic motivation, transforming enjoyable activities into burdensome tasks. This phenomenon persists into adulthood, where the distinction between volunteering and working for pay highlights the role of motivation in shaping our experiences.

Understanding intrinsic motivation becomes a powerful tool for giving back and positively impacting the world. Volunteering, mentoring, supporting causes, and seeking opportunities to contribute all stem from the internal drive to engage in activities for their own sake.

The fulfillment derived from giving back, including a sense of accomplishment, connection with others, boosted self-esteem, and increased well-being, underscores the importance of intrinsic motivation in leading a meaningful and joyous life. By consciously embracing our passions and engaging in activities without external expectations, we invest in ourselves and contribute to the well-being of others and the world at large.