NYSTCE English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Practice Test

Which term describes the internal drive to achieve personal goals?

1. External motivation

2. Self-discipline

3. Self-motivation

4. Peer pressure

The correct answer is: Self-motivation

The term that accurately describes the internal drive to achieve personal goals is self-motivation. This concept refers to the ability of an individual to find the impetus to take action and maintain commitment toward their objectives, regardless of external influences or pressures. Self-motivation is essential for personal growth, as it encourages individuals to set their own goals and pursue them actively. In contrast, external motivation relies on outside factors, such as rewards or recognition, which do not stem from the individual's inner desires or ambitions. Self-discipline relates more to the ability to control one’s impulses and behaviors to stay committed to a goal, but it does not encapsulate the internal drive aspect. Peer pressure refers to the influence exerted by a peer group, often leading individuals to act based on the group's expectations rather than their personal goals. This highlights how self-motivation is fundamentally different from these other concepts, emphasizing the individual's internal push toward achievement.