Intrinsic motivation is a powerful force that drives us, challenges us, and keeps us engaged in the world. Unlike extrinsic rewards like money, it comes from within.
But how do we tap into our own intrinsic motivation, and what factors shape it?
In this blog, we'll explore the 5 P's of intrinsic motivation: Personality, Preferences, Potential, Proficiencies, and Prospering.
By understanding and leveraging each of these elements, you can unlock your inner drive and achieve greater success, happiness, and fulfillment.
Personality:
The first P of intrinsic motivation is personality. We all have certain personality traits that are largely stable over time, such as order, power, relationships, tranquility, idealism, status. These traits shape our basic preferences, values, and tendencies, and can either support or hinder our motivation. For example, a person with a high need for social contact might be more motivated by social and collaborative activities, while a person with low need might be more motivated by solitary pursuits. Understanding your personality can help you align your goals and activities with your natural tendencies, and avoid burnout or frustration.
Who am I? Why am I the way I am? Explore fairly stable personality attributes, traits and intrinsic motives.
Preferences:
The second P of intrinsic motivation is preferences. This refers to the things that are important to us, such as our values, passions, and interests. When we engage in activities that align with our preferences, we feel a sense of intrinsic satisfaction and fulfillment. Conversely, when we are forced to do things that go against our preferences, we feel demotivated and resentful. To tap into your intrinsic motivation, it's influential to identify and prioritize your preferences, and find ways to incorporate them into your daily life.
What is essential to me? Explore values and personal preferences.
Potential:
The third P of intrinsic motivation is potential. This refers to the psychological resources we can draw on to meet challenges and overcome obstacles. These resources include resilience, optimism, self-efficacy, and a growth mindset. When we develop and cultivate our potential, we become more capable, confident, and motivated. For example, if you have a setback or a failure, your level of resilience will determine whether you bounce back quickly or give up. By focusing on developing your potential, you can build up your inner resources and become more resilient and adaptive.
What do I have to rely on? Explore and develop psychological resources such as resilience.
Proficiencies:
The fourth P of intrinsic motivation is proficiencies. This refers to the skills and competencies we have developed over time, such as leadership, problem-solving, creativity, or communication. When we engage in activities that utilize our proficiencies, we feel a sense of mastery and competence, which can drive our motivation. Conversely, when we feel that our skills are not being utilized or challenged, we can become bored or demotivated. To cultivate your intrinsic motivation, it's important to identify and develop your strengths, and seek out opportunities to use them in new and challenging ways.
What am I good at? Explore key competencies and leadership skills and develop.
Prospering:
The final P of intrinsic motivation is prospering. This refers to our overall well-being, happiness, and satisfaction with life. When we engage in activities that promote our well-being, such as exercise, meditation, or spending time with loved ones, we feel a sense of positivity and joy. Conversely, when we neglect our well-being or engage in activities that are harmful, such as overwork or substance abuse, we can become demotivated or depressed. To tap into our intrinsic motivation, it's important to prioritize our overall well-being, and seek out activities that promote our flourishing.
How do I feel? Explore and track changing well-being, FLOW, and adaptation to situations.
Intrinsic motivation is a complex and multifaceted force that shapes our behavior, attitudes, and overall well-being.
By understanding and cultivating the 5 P's of intrinsic motivation, we can unlock our inner drive, achieve our goals, and live a more fulfilling and satisfying life.
So take some time to explore your personality, preferences, potential, proficiencies, and prospering, and see how you can leverage each of these elements to tap into your intrinsic motivation. The rewards are waiting for you!
Comments