If there were no more prizes, certificates, or awards, would you still be motivated?

Motivation comes from many sources. Some are external, like grades, while others are internal, like personal development. When we focus too much on external, or extrinsic, motivation, it can feel like we are losing control over major life choices, becoming dependent on others’ expectations. At other times we need external motivators to encourage us to accomplish personal goals. Extrinsic and intrinsic motivations are key factors in the theory of self-determination.

According to the Positive Psychology article written by Courtney E. Ackerman, "Self-Determination Theory of Motivation: Why Intrinsic Motivation Matters" (February 2021), self-determination is a concept originating from the research of Edward Deci and Richard Ryan. They theorized that motivation can be categorized, and plays a significant role in how much control we feel we have over our own lives. The theory of self-determination identifies three main needs that need to be met for people to feel motivated and independent:

1. Autonomy is the ability to control your own behaviour and match your decisions to your values.
2. Competence is the ability to be successful in your activities and interests, and improve your skills.
3. Connection defines the relationships you have, and your place in a community.

Everyone has different goals in life, but these three needs remain generally the same across populations. To actively work towards life goals, practice fulfilling your autonomy, competence, and connectedness.

Intrinsic motivation is important, but often difficult to achieve. From a young age many of us are raised to seek extrinsic motivation. School grades, prizes, and parental expectations can be very motivating, but they can also make students feel dependent on others for validation. When we constantly strive for rewards, it can easily lead to decreased interest in activities, because all of our focus is on the outcome rather than the process. Over time, the reward loses meaning. This is called the overjustification effect, when too much extrinsic motivation leads to a decrease in both performance and intrinsic motivation. The Healthline article, "Intrinsic Motivation: How to Pick Up Healthy Motivation Techniques" (February 2019), writes that the overjustification effect can be combated by focusing on intrinsic motivation. Think about how you feel when you learn something interesting, or how you align your values with your everyday life. The process of creating or learning can offer more personal growth and skill development than any prize or score will yield.

There are sub-theories, like the Organismic Integration Theory and Cognitive Evaluation Theory, that I encourage you to explore. What motivates us is immensely varied and complex, and changes from person to person. Do you think we need to shift from reward systems to self-determination?