Choose Your Own Adventure (Authentically)

In Why We Do What We Do, motivational psychologist Edward Deci explains that, “External cunning or pressure... can sometimes bring about compliance, but with compliance comes various negative consequences, including the urge to defy” (9). This “external motivation” can cause worry and stress, while being autonomous--motivated by your inner self--“is associated with positive aspects of personality” (183). When autonomous, you choose your own adventures authentically, and, as a result, experience more positive consequences.

Yet, being autonomous and authentic isn’t an easy task. Like many students at Calvin, you likely hold an academic scholarship that requires a high grade to keep. Does this external motivation make you want to work hard because you enjoy it? Instead of creating autonomous students, these controls reduce authenticity in their desire to take classes, since, as Deci explains, “Authenticity necessitates behaving autonomously, for it means being the author of one’s actions...” (4). Fortunately, you, as a Calvin student, can become autonomous and authentic, despite external motivators, allowing you to care less about what grades you receive and more about what you’re learning. By finding a support group, choosing to change, becoming less ego-involved, and learning to regulate your emotions, you will have more positive results and adventures.

When people find others who support them in their intrinsic motivation, they become more autonomous. Deci notes that “Some children who live in what are generally non-nurturing environments are able to find an adult with whom to have a special relationship” (178). He argues that these special relationships are what set these children apart, allowing them the chance to do...

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... important step in becoming autonomous and not ego-involved. By asking questions, such as “why do I feel like the world will end if I don’t keep my scholarship?” you can begin to understand and accept yourself. Taking interest in yourself, instead of casting blame, is necessary to being autonomy controlled. Though there aren’t specific techniques that work for everyone, simply wondering why you do what you do will help you in your quest to becoming autonomous and authentic.

By enjoying your classes and understanding yourself even in the midst of controls, you can become more autonomous and authentic in your actions. Through finding a support group, choosing to change, and becoming less ego-involved, you, and your Calvin classmates, can autonomously and authentically choose your own adventures, instead of allowing the grades you receive to control and define you.