ABSTRACT
People are motivated by many things; one key distinction is between intrinsic motivation (doing an activity for enjoyment or growth) and extrinsic motivation (doing an activity for outside reasons such as money or fame). Intrinsic motivation is experiencing an inner drive and feeling “flow,” and it is usually wonderful. However, achieving goals in both theatre and life also requires doing the boring parts. Extrinsic motivation can help one plug through the revisions, the troubleshooting process, gathering of resources, and other aspects of creativity that may not appeal to everyone. We then discuss how changing up goals and mindsets can help stave off stagnation and encourage growth. Balance continues to be important, but without feeling a certain level of passion it is hard to advance.
