How do intrinsic motivations differ from extrinsic motivations in behavior change?

Intrinsic motivations are centered around personal satisfaction, meaning that an individual engages in a behavior because they find it inherently rewarding or fulfilling. This could include feelings of accomplishment, enjoyment, or a sense of purpose that arises from the activity itself. For instance, someone might exercise because they love the way it makes them feel, rather than to achieve an external goal, such as winning a competition or getting praise from others.

In contrast, extrinsic motivations are driven by external rewards or outcomes, such as money, recognition, or other tangible benefits. When a person changes their behavior due to these external incentives, the motivation to continue that behavior may diminish once the reward is removed.

Understanding the distinction between intrinsic and extrinsic motivations is crucial for fostering lasting behavior change. When motivation comes from within and is related to personal satisfaction, individuals are more likely to maintain their new behaviors over time, even in the absence of external rewards. This makes intrinsic motivations typically more sustainable for long-term lifestyle changes compared to behaviors driven solely by extrinsic factors.