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Start for freeThe Experiment That Revealed It All
In 1998, Columbia University's Professor Claudia M. Mueller conducted an eye-opening study involving fifth graders and puzzles. These children, regardless of their actual performance, were praised for their success but were divided into two groups based on the reason given for their success. One group was told their success was due to being smart and gifted, an external factor they had no control over. The other group was informed their success came from hard work, an internal factor entirely within their control.
The Impact of Praise on Motivation
The findings of this study were profound. The group praised for being smart tended to avoid challenges, opting for easier puzzles, which indicated a lower level of motivation. Conversely, the group told their success was due to effort spent significantly more time on challenging puzzles, showing higher motivation and even enjoying the process more.
The Locus of Control
This study brings to light the concept of locus of control—the degree to which individuals believe they have control over the outcomes of events in their lives. Those with an external locus of control believe their successes or failures result from external factors beyond their control. On the other hand, individuals with an internal locus of control believe they can influence their fates through their actions.
Why Internal Locus of Control Matters
Having an internal locus of control is crucial for sustained motivation. Believing that your efforts can lead to success empowers you to take action and persevere through challenges. This mindset is not only beneficial in academic settings but also in various life scenarios, including professional environments.
Real-World Applications
The principles from Mueller's study have practical implications beyond the classroom. For instance, in the high-turnover world of door-to-door sales, those who attribute poor sales to external factors tend to give up easily. In contrast, those who see their efforts as directly influencing sales outcomes are more likely to succeed and stay motivated.
Cultivating an Internal Locus of Control
The key to developing an internal locus of control is to actively solve problems in your life and recognize your role in these solutions. By acknowledging that your actions lead to improvements, you reinforce the belief in your ability to control your destiny. This self-belief is the foundation of lasting motivation.
Conclusion
The study conducted by Professor Claudia M. Mueller at Columbia University underscores the powerful impact of mindset on motivation. By understanding and embracing the concept of the locus of control, individuals can unlock their motivation, facing challenges with resilience and enjoyment. It's a testament to the power of believing in the value of hard work over inherent talent.
Further Learning with Skillshare
For those interested in further exploring how to cultivate an internal locus of control and boost productivity, Skillshare offers a range of courses, including on productivity and improving attention span. As a platform dedicated to learning and self-improvement, Skillshare can be a valuable resource for those looking to enhance their motivation and control over their lives.
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