3 Types of Motivation, and how a sense of purpose makes all the difference in the world
Remember: what might be motivating for one person, might not be motivating for another person.
1) External/Extrinsic motivation: You are motivated to get a result, but don't enjoy the process: For example, if you don't like going to work, but you love your paycheck. For many people, physical exercise can fall into this category. (Working towards an external REWARD at the end of the activity, such as going to the gym, so people tell them they look fit and healthy, or trying to graduate at the top of your class to win your parents approval.)
2) Internal/Intrinsic Motivation: You enjoy the process you are engaged in, such as socializing, going for a scenic walk, jogging, singing, making a nice meal, or any creative project. OR, it can mean that we get a sense of purpose or meaning attached to the thing we are compelled to do, such as taking a leadership position somewhere to help people become better versions of themselves, or volunteering at the local animal shelter. .....and the "darker" side of intrinsic motivation would include any escapism activity such as porn, video games, drinking, drugs, smoking, online binge shopping, mindless scrolling, external validation seeking, or emotional eating (simply because they are "enjoyable" and don't serve a purpose that gives you good results in life, and it's not tied to a higher purpose beyond yourself. It is purely "self serving".)
3) Subconscious Intrinsic Motivation: When the external reward provides the subconscious mind with something that it wants or needs. This is the TRUE MOTIVATION for all extrinsic motivation. For example: being motivated to get good grades as a student to win your parent's approval. You feel unlovable if you don't meet their standards. The subconscious motivation to get good grades is to feel loved. (Technically, there is a deeper subconscious motivation to all escapism behaviors mentioned in #2. We tackle this in the activity below.)
Step into your Higher Self with these MODIFIED "12-steps"
You will be able to have a higher sense of purpose in your life when you do this
