Internal and External Gratifications

Gratifications

Gratification can be broadly categorized into two types: internal and external.

In the following section we shall attempt to understand Internal and External Gratification.

Internal gratification refers to the sense of satisfaction and accomplishment that arises from within oneself, without the need for external validation. Examples of internal gratification include achieving personal goals, mastering a new skill, and experiencing personal growth and development.

External gratification, on the other hand, refers to the validation and recognition that one receives from others. Examples of external gratification include praise, rewards, and accolades from others for one's accomplishments.

Both internal and external gratification can have their pros and cons, and it's important to strike a balance between them.

Pros of Internal Gratification:

• Long-lasting satisfaction: Internal gratification comes from within oneself, and thus, it can provide a longer-lasting sense of satisfaction and fulfilment.
• Self-motivation: When we experience internal gratification, we are motivated to continue pursuing our goals and achieving personal growth and development.
• Sense of purpose: Internal gratification can provide a sense of purpose and meaning in life, as we strive to achieve our personal goals and aspirations.

Cons of Internal Gratification:

• Lack of external validation: Internal gratification may not provide the external validation and recognition that some people need to feel accomplished and valued.
• Self-doubt: When we rely solely on internal gratification, we may be more prone to self-doubt and self-criticism, as we may question our abilities and accomplishments.

Pros of External Gratification:

• Recognition and validation: External gratification can provide recognition and validation for our accomplishments, which can be motivating and rewarding.
• Boosts self-esteem: When we receive external validation and praise from others, it can boost our self-esteem and confidence.
• Social connections: External gratification can help to build social connections and strengthen relationships with others.

Cons of External Gratification

• Short-lasting satisfaction: External gratification may provide a short-lived sense of satisfaction and fulfilment, as it is dependent on the approval and validation of others.
• Need for validation: When we rely too much on external gratification, we may become overly reliant on the approval and validation of others, which can be detrimental to our self-esteem and confidence.
• Comparison with others: External gratification can lead to comparing ourselves to others and feeling inadequate if we don't receive the same level of recognition and approval However, it's important to note that there can also be negative consequences associated with gratification, particularly if we become too focused on instant gratification at the expense of our long-term goals and well-being. This shall be covered in the next segment.