What Drives You?
**Double Jeopardy**
This type of motivation comes from wanting external rewards like money, grades, or praise.
What is extrinsic motivation?
This word means pushing through challenges even when things get tough — it’s what helps you keep going when motivation fades.
What is grit?
This phrase means staying calm and focused even when things around you are stressful — controlling your thoughts instead of letting your thoughts control you.
What is mindfulness?
This part of your brain helps you make smart choices, plan ahead, and think about your future — it’s like the boss in charge.
What is the prefrontal cortex?
When you really don’t feel like starting your work, but you tell yourself, “I’ll just do five minutes,” this trick helps you get moving.
What is the 5-minute rule (or just starting small)?
This type of motivation comes from doing something because it feels satisfying or meaningful, not because of a reward.
What is intrinsic motivation?
** Double Jeopardy**
When you make a mistake and learn from it instead of giving up, you’re showing this kind of mindset.
What is a growth mindset?
When your brain tells you “I can’t do this,” replacing that thought with “I can figure this out” is an example of this positive habit.
What is positive self-talk?
This part of your brain just wants what feels good right now — like scrolling TikTok instead of doing homework.
What is the limbic system?
Listening to your favorite hype song before a big test or game can boost this type of energy.
What is motivation (or getting in the right mindset)?
When you set a specific, realistic goal and make a plan to reach it, you’re using this motivational strategy.
What is goal setting (or SMART goal setting)?
This phrase means doing what you need to do even when you don’t feel like it — because you’re focused on your goals, not your mood.
What is discipline (or self-discipline)?
**Double Jeopardy**
Athletes, performers, and students often use this technique to picture themselves succeeding before they actually do it.
What is visualization (or mental rehearsal)?
This brain chemical makes you feel good when you get likes, rewards, or win something — but too much of it can make you chase quick highs instead of real goals.
What is dopamine?
When you reward yourself after finishing something hard — like watching a show after studying — you’re using this strategy.
What is earning a reward (or positive reinforcement)?
This psychological theory says people are motivated by three basic needs: autonomy, competence, and connection.
What is self-determination theory?
When things don’t go your way, you can either complain or adjust. This phrase describes people who find another route instead of giving up when they hit a wall.
What is pivoting (or “adapting” / “finding another way”)?
When you take a deep breath, count to ten, or walk away instead of reacting in anger, you’re showing this type of emotional strength.
What is self-regulation (or emotional control)?
** Double Jeopardy**
When you wait to enjoy something later instead of giving in to what feels good right now, you’re practicing this skill.
What is delayed gratification (or patience)?
Sometimes you just have to stop waiting to “feel motivated” and do it anyway. This is called pushing through with this skill.
What is self-discipline (or doing it anyway)?
When you choose to focus on your “why” — your personal reason for doing something — you’re tapping into this kind of motivation that fuels long-term effort and resilience.
What is purpose-driven motivation (or knowing your “why”)?
When someone faces failure, rejection, or disappointment but bounces back stronger and keeps trying, they’re showing this powerful skill.
What is resilience?
This mindset trick helps you see obstacles as opportunities to learn instead of signs to quit — it’s what turns pressure into power.
What is reframing (or changing your perspective)?
Your brain gives you little hits of this “feel-good” chemical for short-term wins, but working hard toward long-term goals builds a steadier, more lasting version of it.
What is sustainable dopamine (or long-term satisfaction)?
When you remember the bigger reason behind what you’re doing — like graduating, helping family, or proving people wrong — you’ve tapped into this deeper drive.
What is your why (or purpose)?