The ability to realize our potential depends partly on where our motivation comes from. Is it intrinsic or extrinsic? Intrinsic motivation occurs when we’re driven to do something because we want to learn, grow, or because the activity is just plain interesting. Extrinsic motivation occurs when we’re driven to do something in order to gain a reward or escape a punishment. Even when rewards and punishments come from within, like the reward of self-esteem or the punishment of self-criticism, our motivation is still extrinsic because we’re engaging in an activity for ulterior motives.
