The drive to do something because of external rewards or pressures rather than for the activity itself. If you’re studying just because you want a good grade, or cleaning your room because your parents promised ice cream, that’s extrinsic motivation. It’s like being fueled by carrots and sticks – the “carrots” are rewards (prizes, praise, grades) and the “sticks” might be avoiding punishment or guilt. Extrinsic motivators can be powerful in getting you to start a task, but pairing them with intrinsic motivation (your own interest or enjoyment) is the ideal combo for long-term success and happiness in what you do.
Keywords: extrinsic motivation, external rewards, incentive to study
