The kind of motivation you have impacts your chances of success in Graduate school

As a psychologist, I’ve seen it time and time again: motivation plays a huge role in whether or not we succeed in our goals. But not all motivation is created equal. There are two main types—intrinsic (coming from within) and extrinsic (driven by external rewards)—and the kind of motivation you rely on can make a big difference in how successful you are in the long run.

So, let’s break it down a bit and talk about how each type of motivation impacts your chances of success.

Intrinsic Motivation: The Inner Drive That Keeps You Going

When you’re intrinsically motivated, you’re doing something because you genuinely enjoy it or because it aligns with your personal values. It’s not about getting a reward or recognition; it’s about the process itself. Think about it like this: a person who loves writing isn’t doing it for money or praise—they write because they find joy in putting their thoughts on paper or expressing themselves creatively.

This type of motivation is incredibly powerful because it’s sustainable. When you’re motivated from within, you’re more likely to push through challenges, setbacks, and failures because you’re connected to the bigger picture. Whether you're learning a new skill, pursuing a passion, or trying to get in shape, the journey itself feels rewarding. Even if things get tough, the intrinsic enjoyment of the task keeps you engaged.

People with strong intrinsic motivation are more likely to be resilient and persistent. This is because their motivation isn’t dependent on external outcomes, which can fluctuate or be out of their control. When the reward is built into the activity itself, setbacks feel like part of the process, not a reason to quit.

Extrinsic Motivation: The Push for External Rewards

Extrinsic motivation is all about the rewards outside of yourself—things like praise, money, status, or recognition. It’s the kind of motivation you feel when you’re working toward a promotion, trying to win a competition, or aiming for a paycheck. While it can definitely help you get things done, it’s a bit more fragile than intrinsic motivation.

Here’s the thing: extrinsic motivation can be very effective in the short term. If you’ve ever worked toward a specific goal, like a deadline at work or a fitness challenge, you know that the thought of the reward can push you to work harder. But there’s a catch: if the reward doesn’t materialize, or if it’s not as satisfying as you hoped, motivation can quickly drop off.

That’s because when your motivation is solely driven by external factors, you become dependent on those things for your drive. If you don’t get the reward, you might feel disappointed or lose interest altogether. Over time, relying too heavily on extrinsic motivation can lead to burnout, especially if you feel like you’re never getting enough recognition or reward for your efforts.

So, Which Type of Motivation is Better?

As you might have guessed, intrinsic motivation tends to lead to more lasting success. It’s about enjoying the journey and finding purpose in what you do, which keeps you going even when things get tough. People who are intrinsically motivated are more likely to stick with their goals, overcome obstacles, and find fulfillment in the process itself.

That said, extrinsic motivation isn’t inherently bad. It can be useful in situations where there’s a clear goal with tangible rewards—like working toward a promotion or hitting a fitness milestone. The key is finding a balance between the two. If you rely too much on external rewards, you might find yourself burned out or disillusioned. But if you can connect your goals to something you genuinely care about or enjoy, you’ll build a motivation that’s stronger and more sustainable.

The Role of Intrinsic Motivation in Graduate Studies

While both types of motivation have their place, intrinsic motivation is particularly powerful in graduate school. When you’re genuinely passionate about your research or coursework, you’re more likely to engage deeply with the material, persevere through challenges, and maintain your enthusiasm over time. This mindset not only enhances your learning experience but also contributes significantly to your overall well-being.

Cultivating Intrinsic Motivation

To foster intrinsic motivation, consider the following strategies:

1. Set Personal Goals: Identify what you want to achieve beyond grades. Whether it’s mastering a specific topic or contributing to meaningful research, setting personal milestones can help you stay focused and motivated.

2. Find your Support Network: Surround yourself with peers and mentors who share your interests. Their support can help you maintain enthusiasm and provide accountability.

3. Engage in Active Learning: Participate in discussions, collaborative projects, and hands-on experiences to deepen your understanding and keep your passion alive.

4. Reflect on Your Progress: Regularly take time to reflect on your achievements, no matter how small. Acknowledging your growth can reignite your passion and drive.

Questions to Reflect On

As you navigate your graduate journey, ask yourself the following questions to assess your motivation:

1. What aspects of my studies genuinely excite me, and how can I incorporate more of them into my daily routine?

2. Am I pursuing my degree for personal fulfillment, or am I primarily motivated by external rewards?

3. How do I respond to setbacks, and what does that say about my intrinsic motivation?

4. Have I created a supportive environment for myself, filled with individuals who inspire me?

5. What personal goals can I set that align with my passions and values?

By reflecting on these questions, you can gain valuable insights into your motivation and make adjustments that enhance your intrinsic motivation increase the chances of your academic success.