Which example best illustrates intrinsic motivation vs extrinsic motivation in the workplace?

• A. Working on a challenging project to earn a promotion.
• B. Enjoying solving problems for personal satisfaction.
• C. Receiving bonus for performance.
• D. Participating in a team charity event for recognition.

Answer: (B)

Intrinsic motivation is doing a task for internal satisfaction, curiosity, or a sense of mastery, rather than for any external reward. The example where someone enjoys solving problems for personal satisfaction shows the activity itself is rewarding, driven by internal interest. That internal enjoyment keeps them engaged and fosters creativity and persistence even without external prizes. The other scenarios hinge on external rewards or recognition—pursuing a promotion, earning a performance bonus, or seeking acknowledgement for participating in a charity event—so they illustrate extrinsic motivation, where behavior is driven by outcomes outside the activity itself. So this option best captures intrinsic motivation in contrast to extrinsic motivators.