The difference between external and internal motivation

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External motivation, as a term in psychology, describes incentives or motives that come from the outside world. It is about the influence of factors directed from the outside and stimulating a person to certain actions or achieving set goals. External motivation can include material and non-material components. In the first case, this is financial reward, career growth, awards, etc.

Intangible factors may include recognition, reward, or status in society. External motivation is often associated with the desire to receive recognition, material reward, or the need to jamaica mobile phone numbers database meet social expectations.

The difference between external and internal motivation

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External motivation by definition includes methods of "rewards and punishments", in which the driving factor for an individual is the prospect of a reward or fear of sanctions. Such external stimulation significantly influences the formation of behavioral reactions and motivates a person to perform certain actions or solve specific problems. External motivation can be effective in a number of cases, especially if the activity itself is not attractive to the person. In addition, it is important when it is necessary to quickly obtain certain results or ensure the fulfillment of strict requirements.

It should be noted that external motivation in the commercial sphere can temporarily increase productivity. However, in the long term, it does not always contribute to the involvement of specialists. Internal motivation, caused by personal interests, purposefulness and other factors, is usually more stable and provides increased satisfaction. Finding a balance between external and internal motivation plays a decisive role in the issue of forming a sense of personal freedom, satisfaction and constant interest in one’s affairs.


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Types of external motivation
There are several types of extrinsic motivation, including material incentives, career advancement, social approval, awards, and financial bonuses.

Financial bonuses

This type of external motivation of personnel is associated with material rewards: salary increases, bonuses or commissions. It is used to encourage necessary actions and results.

Career growth

Promotion up the career ladder as a form of external motivation consists of providing employees with the opportunity for professional career growth, promotion or expansion of the range of responsibilities as a reward for achievements in work activities.

Recognition in society

Associated with the assessment of a specific person's achievements or contribution in front of the team. It can be expressed in the form of the title of the best employee of the month, awards, certificates or announcements and is aimed at increasing the motivation and self-esteem of employees.

Prizes and awards

Rewards are valuable tangible gifts, such as exclusive products or privileges, given to individuals in recognition of their performance in solving specific problems or exceeding expectations.

Non-material incentives

This type of extrinsic motivation includes a variety of non-monetary rewards, such as gift certificates, travel packages, or unique experiences, that are provided as recognition of past performance to encourage employees to make efforts to achieve goals.

The above-listed types of external motivation include different forms of external influence and are used in educational institutions, organizations and enterprises to stimulate people to solve assigned tasks.