Understanding the Dynamics of Motivation: Intrinsic vs. Extrinsic Forces in Goal Pursuit
In the journey towards achieving our goals, the role of motivation is paramount, yet often misunderstood. This video delves into the nuanced world of intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, uncovering how these forces drive our actions and shape our pursuits. By exploring psychological insights and research findings, we gain a deeper understanding of what motivates us and how we can harness this knowledge to stay committed to our aspirations, whether in personal endeavours or professional pursuits.
Key Vocabulary:
1. Aspired (verb)
- Definition: To have a strong desire to achieve something.
- Synonym: Aimed
2. Portfolio (noun)
- Definition: A collection of works or documents that represent a person's skills and accomplishments.
- Synonym: Collection
3. Unmotivated (adjective)
- Definition: Lacking the desire or willingness to do something.
- Synonym: Indifferent
4. Impetus (noun)
- Definition: A force or influence that makes something happen or happen more quickly.
- Synonym: Stimulus
5. Intrinsic (adjective)
- Definition: Belonging naturally; essential.
- Synonym: Inherent
6. Extrinsic (adjective)
- Definition: Not part of the essential nature of someone or something; coming or operating from outside.
- Synonym: External
7. Persistence (noun)
- Definition: The quality of continuing steadily despite problems or difficulties.
- Synonym: Perseverance
8. Predict (verb)
- Definition: To say what will happen in the future, based on information or experience.
- Synonym: Forecast
9. Overjustification (noun)
- Definition: The phenomenon where providing an external incentive for a behaviour that is already internally rewarding leads to a reduction in intrinsic motivation.
- Synonym: Overincentivization
10. Tedious (adjective)
- Definition: Too long, slow, or dull; tiresome or monotonous.
- Synonym: Boring
11. Justification (noun)
- Definition: The action of showing something to be right or reasonable.
- Synonym: Rationalisation
12. Daunting (adjective)
- Definition: Seeming difficult to deal with; intimidating.
- Synonym: Formidable
13. Complicated (adjective)
- Definition: Consisting of many interconnecting parts or elements; intricate.
- Synonym: Complex
14. Passionate (adjective)
- Definition: Showing or caused by strong feelings or a strong belief.
- Synonym: Ardent
15. Pursuing (verb)
- Definition: Following or chasing in order to catch or attack.
- Synonym: Chasing
These key words and phrases enrich the understanding of the dynamics of motivation and personal development, facilitating deeper discussions and analysis of psychological concepts.
10 Engaging Conversation Questions:
1. How do you differentiate between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation in your own life, and which type do you find more influential in achieving your goals?
2. Can you share an experience where external rewards diminished your intrinsic motivation, reflecting the overjustification effect?
3. What strategies do you use to maintain motivation when facing a task you find tedious or uninteresting?
4. How do you think the concepts of intrinsic and extrinsic motivation apply to educational settings, particularly in university or adult education?
5. Can you recall a situation where you felt highly motivated for a personal project? What were the driving factors behind your motivation?
6. How do extrinsic rewards, such as money or recognition, influence your motivation in your career or studies?
7. Do you agree with the idea that having multiple motivators can sometimes be less effective than having a singular focus? Why or why not?
8. In what ways do you think understanding one's own motivational drives can contribute to personal and professional success?
9. Can you discuss a time when you had to rely on extrinsic motivators to complete a task? How did it affect your performance and satisfaction?
10. How do you balance intrinsic and extrinsic motivators in pursuing long-term goals, like career advancement or personal development projects?
These conversation questions are designed to provoke thoughtful discussions among C1 level students, encouraging them to explore and articulate complex ideas about motivation and personal development.