Motivation: intrinsic and extrinsic

In short: Intrinsic motivation comes from interest in the matter itself, extrinsic from outside through reward or pressure. Sustainable learning and working usually succeed better with inner motivation.

In more detail: According to self-determination theory autonomy, experience of competence and social relatedness strengthen intrinsic motivation.

In detail

• Extrinsic: Grades, money, praise, avoiding punishment. Works in the short term but can crowd out enjoyment of the subject.
• Autonomy: Choices and recognising meaning (“What do I need this for?”).
• Competence: Suitable difficulty, step-by-step successes, feedback.
• Relatedness: Exchange with others, study groups, role models.
• Goals: Concrete, measurable and self-chosen; learning goals rather than just performance goals.
• Flow: When demand and ability match, one gets absorbed in the activity (flow-erleben).
• Tip: Small rewards are fine as long as they do not replace the core (gewohnheiten-aufbauen-und-aendern).