Key Insight One: Unlocking Potential Through Intrinsic Motivation

        In today's society, I believe that adolescents are increasingly struggling to find intrinsic motivation in their daily lives. In the United States, there is a troubling trend where more and more young students are relying on AI generators and other technological devices to occupy their time. Despite significant changes in the education system since COVID-19, it seems that younger generations are suffering from excessive immersion in social media and experiencing a decline in meaningful face-to-face interactions. This shift not only affects their academic performance but also their overall ability to stay motivated and engaged in real-world experiences. 

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      This issue extends far beyond individual concerns; it represents a significant societal challenge that is likely to worsen in the United States. As adolescents increasingly disengage from their social environments, there is a growing recognition that loneliness is closely associated with depression (Orben et al., 2020). This escalating mental health crisis is affecting both students and parents, who are struggling to address and manage these conditions. The surge in depression diagnoses following the COVID-19 pandemic has heightened awareness of the issue, but it has also aggravated the crisis, creating a pressing dilemma for society (Orben et al., 2020).  

 

       Examining the impact on social development reveals a critical concern: adolescents are at risk of falling into a trajectory that could significantly impede societal progress. In Honors Principles of Management 371, I learned that many professions, particularly in fields like dentistry, require constant daily interactions with people. If younger generations start to lose these essential social skills, it will not only create broader societal issues but also introduce specific challenges in the workplace. Effective face-to-face communication is crucial for personal growth and societal advancement. Without these skills, individuals may struggle to excel in their careers and contribute positively to their communities, ultimately affecting the overall functionality and progress of society. 

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      Management involves understanding how intrinsic motivation can enhance job satisfaction and retention, reducing the need for constant external incentives. Given the potential decline in social connections and motivation among younger generations, I am committed to preserving and strengthening these skills in myself to ensure I remain effective and engaged in my professional and personal life. I strive to practice these skills through my volunteer work with Meals on Wheels.  

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      Senior Resources is a dedicated nonprofit organization that offers a range of programs to support seniors throughout the region. While it operates in numerous locations nationwide, the Columbia center is known for its Meals on Wheels Program, which delivers a hot meal to 310 seniors every day. In my role, I am responsible for packing and delivering these meals, which not only enhances my self-confidence and intrinsic motivation but also directly benefits Senior Resources and its participants. This hands-on involvement allows me to contribute meaningfully to the community while reinforcing my own personal growth and commitment.  

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      For many seniors, the Meals on Wheels visit represents their only social interaction of the day, a vital connection they rely on. One senior even dressed in her Sunday best, knowing I was coming. For me, hearing their stories was profoundly heartwarming and fueled my intrinsic motivation to return. This experience not only enhanced my social interactions but also bolstered my confidence—skills that will benefit me in my professional career. I never anticipated that volunteering with Meals on Wheels could have such a profound impact on my life. I believe that all younger generations should seek out volunteer opportunities that emphasize social communication to help address the rising depression rates linked to diminishing social skills. 

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Works Cited:

Orben, Amy, et al. “The effects of social deprivation on adolescent development and mental health.” NCBI, 12 June                                                                                                   2020, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7292584/. Accessed 6 September 2024.