Intrinsic motivation refers to the drive to engage in an activity for its own sake, rather than for external rewards or pressures. This type of motivation arises from personal satisfaction, interest, or enjoyment in the task itself. For example, a person might play a musical instrument simply because they love making music, not for fame or money. In contrast to extrinsic motivation, which relies on external factors like rewards or recognition, intrinsic motivation fosters a deeper connection to the activity. It is often linked to higher levels of creativity, persistence, and overall well-being, making it a key concept in fields like psychology and education, particularly in understanding how people learn and grow.