Motivation

Why We Learn – and How to Stay Motivated

Motivation: a fascinating concept from many perspectives. Where does this energy come from? Is it external or internal? And why does it fluctuate at all?

These are psychological questions that play a significant role in many areas of our lives—especially when learning something new, like a language. There are two primary types of motivation: intrinsic and extrinsic. Simply put, learners who are intrinsically motivated often find it easier.

However, intrinsic motivation is rarely innate; it usually develops over time. The sources of this motivation are still somewhat mysterious, but they can generally be traced back to a few fundamental origins:

• The desire for independence
• The need to develop competence and measure oneself against others
• A belief in the meaningfulness of the activity
• Interest and curiosity about the subject
• Enjoyment of the activity itself
• The need for belonging
• The desire for creative expression
• Alignment with personal values

As a language learner, you should ask yourself one key question: What does this mean for me? If you already feel intrinsically motivated, hold on to that. If something works, don’t change it. However, for those who always need external pressure to start learning, there are also ways to make the process feel less like a struggle.

The key lies in understanding why you want to learn in the first place. Only when you align your learning goals with your own desires and needs can you achieve the best results.

For example, you could imagine how it would feel to be part of a society rather than observing from the outside. Or the sense of accomplishment when receiving praise for your language skills. Another useful question to ask yourself: How will I feel a year from now if I don’t start learning today?

And then, there are the teachers. We – or at least most of us – specialize in helping you develop intrinsic motivation to make your learning journey easier. This goes beyond just delivering knowledge and information; it also includes psychological support and targeted questions that help you unlock your inner passion for learning. After all, learning never truly ends – and that’s precisely why: 4everLearn.

Behdad Bodaghi, January 28, 2025