Extrinsic motivations are like, 'I wanna get rich, I wanna be famous.'... Even missionary ones like, 'I wanna change the world with this idea.'... That's an extrinsic motivation. And when things are hard, you're going to be like, oh why am I doing this?

The quote "Extrinsic motivations are like, 'I wanna get rich, I wanna be famous.'... Even missionary ones like, 'I wanna change the world with this idea.'... That's an extrinsic motivation. And when things are hard, you're going to be like, oh why am I doing this?" by Justin Kan explores the concept of motivation, particularly focusing on the difference between extrinsic and intrinsic drives. Kan explains that motivations driven by external rewards, such as wealth, fame, or even grand visions like changing the world, are still considered extrinsic because they rely on outcomes outside oneself.

Justin Kan, an entrepreneur and co-founder of Twitch, shares this insight from his experience building businesses and navigating the challenges that come with innovation and hard work. He points out that when faced with difficulties, extrinsic motivations may falter because the rewards feel distant or uncertain, leading to questions about the purpose behind the effort. This highlights the vulnerability of motivations based primarily on external validation or future results.

The meaning behind this quote centers on the idea that relying solely on extrinsic motivation can be unstable during tough times. Kan suggests that deeper, intrinsic motivations—such as passion, personal satisfaction, or genuine curiosity—are more sustainable because they are rooted in internal values and immediate engagement rather than external outcomes. This distinction is important for anyone pursuing long-term goals, especially in demanding fields like entrepreneurship.

Originating from Justin Kan’s reflections on motivation and success, the quote provides valuable advice for aspiring creators and leaders. It encourages individuals to examine their reasons for pursuing a goal and to cultivate motivations that can endure challenges, ensuring perseverance even when the rewards are not immediately visible.