Transitioning an athlete from relying on outside rewards to finding joy in their sport is possible and really helpful for long-term success and happiness. To do this well, it’s important to understand the differences between the two types of motivation.
Extrinsic Motivation: This is when someone does a sport or activity for outside rewards. These rewards can be trophies, recognition, or money.
Intrinsic Motivation: This is when someone participates in a sport just because they enjoy it and find it satisfying.
Studies show that intrinsic motivation leads to better focus, more learning, and improved mental health. According to research by Deci and Ryan, athletes who are driven by intrinsic motivation tend to stick with their sports longer and enjoy them more than those who depend on extrinsic motivators.
A study in the Journal of Sport Psychology found that 70% of athletes said the joy of the activity itself was the main reason they kept playing.
Another study revealed that 65% of athletes who focused mostly on outside rewards eventually felt burnt out.
Give Them Choices: Let athletes decide on their training and set their own goals. When athletes feel in control, they are more likely to develop intrinsic motivation.
Focus on Improvement: Encourage athletes to work on their skills and celebrate their progress instead of just winning. This can help them enjoy their sport even more.
Make it Fun: Try to include fun activities in practice sessions to help spark their passion for the sport again.
Changing an athlete's motivation from extrinsic to intrinsic takes time and effort. However, the benefits—more enjoyment, a longer time in the sport, and better performance—make it well worth it.
Transitioning an athlete from relying on outside rewards to finding joy in their sport is possible and really helpful for long-term success and happiness. To do this well, it’s important to understand the differences between the two types of motivation.
Extrinsic Motivation: This is when someone does a sport or activity for outside rewards. These rewards can be trophies, recognition, or money.
Intrinsic Motivation: This is when someone participates in a sport just because they enjoy it and find it satisfying.
Studies show that intrinsic motivation leads to better focus, more learning, and improved mental health. According to research by Deci and Ryan, athletes who are driven by intrinsic motivation tend to stick with their sports longer and enjoy them more than those who depend on extrinsic motivators.
A study in the Journal of Sport Psychology found that 70% of athletes said the joy of the activity itself was the main reason they kept playing.
Another study revealed that 65% of athletes who focused mostly on outside rewards eventually felt burnt out.
Give Them Choices: Let athletes decide on their training and set their own goals. When athletes feel in control, they are more likely to develop intrinsic motivation.
Focus on Improvement: Encourage athletes to work on their skills and celebrate their progress instead of just winning. This can help them enjoy their sport even more.
Make it Fun: Try to include fun activities in practice sessions to help spark their passion for the sport again.
Changing an athlete's motivation from extrinsic to intrinsic takes time and effort. However, the benefits—more enjoyment, a longer time in the sport, and better performance—make it well worth it.