Core Insights - The article discusses the concept of "self-rewarding personality," emphasizing the importance of self-reward as a means of maintaining motivation and achieving goals in a challenging social environment [4][7]. Group 1: Self-Rewarding Personality - Self-rewarding personality is characterized by the tendency to motivate oneself through rewards, whether for small tasks or significant achievements [4]. - The article highlights a cultural difference in self-rewarding behaviors, noting that East Asian individuals often do not celebrate personal achievements due to cultural norms that emphasize humility and collective success [8][9]. - Research indicates that East Asian individuals tend to focus on self-improvement rather than self-enhancement, making it difficult for them to feel deserving of self-rewards [10]. Group 2: Psychological Mechanisms - The reliance on external rewards can lead to a decline in intrinsic motivation, a phenomenon known as the "overjustification effect," where external incentives diminish the enjoyment of an activity [14][15]. - Self-rewarding can transform the perception of tasks from "must-do" to "choose-to-do," enhancing intrinsic motivation and personal agency [17][19]. - The brain's reward circuitry, particularly involving dopamine, plays a crucial role in how rewards influence behavior and emotional states, suggesting that self-rewards can help manage stress and improve psychological resilience [20][22]. Group 3: Effective Self-Reward Strategies - The article suggests that self-rewards should focus on the effort and process rather than just the outcomes, promoting a healthier mindset towards achievements [25][27]. - Immediate rewards following small victories are emphasized as crucial for reinforcing positive behavior and maintaining motivation [29][32]. - A tiered reward system is recommended, where the scale of rewards matches the effort put in, ensuring that individuals remain motivated over the long term [37].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the increasing anxiety and confusion among young graduates regarding their future career paths, highlighting a lack of intrinsic motivation and self-exploration opportunities in today's society [1][2][4]. Group 1: Intrinsic Motivation - Intrinsic motivation is defined as the drive to engage in activities out of genuine interest rather than external rewards [5][6]. - The Self-Determination Theory posits that three basic psychological needs—competence, autonomy, and relatedness—are essential for fostering intrinsic motivation [6][19]. - External rewards can diminish intrinsic motivation, a phenomenon known as the Overjustification Effect, where individuals lose interest in activities they once enjoyed when those activities become means to an end [11][12]. Group 2: Factors Affecting Intrinsic Motivation - The article identifies external pressures and a reward-centric environment as primary factors leading to the depletion of intrinsic motivation among young people [7][8]. - Supportive relationships that respect autonomy and provide understanding can significantly enhance an individual's motivation and well-being [27][28]. - The lack of supportive environments in highly competitive settings can lead to increased anxiety and decreased motivation [30]. Group 3: Rebuilding Intrinsic Motivation - To regain intrinsic motivation, individuals should focus on self-affirmation and recognizing their achievements, no matter how small [24]. - Establishing a personal reward system based on intrinsic values rather than external validation is crucial for sustaining motivation [19][22]. - Continuous and deliberate practice is necessary for developing and maintaining intrinsic motivation, as it fosters a deeper engagement with activities [36][39]. Group 4: The Role of Environment - A supportive environment is essential for nurturing intrinsic motivation, as it allows individuals to express themselves and make choices freely [25][26]. - The article emphasizes the importance of questioning whether one is in an environment that supports autonomy and self-expression [31]. - The presence of key supportive figures in challenging environments can help individuals develop intrinsic motivation despite external pressures [29].