January is exam time, and for many, this means a challenging phase while they struggle to find tiny sparks of motivation as they sit at their books and laptops. In recent years, Irina Andreitz, Senior Scientist at the Department of Instructional and School Development, has offered courses on motivation, primarily aimed at student teachers. This much is evident from motivational psychology, one of her main areas of research: in the long term, it is pointless to battle against a presumed inner enemy that prevents you from sitting at your desk and studying or finally getting your tax return done. In our interview, the psychologist shares insights on approaches that can yield rewards in terms of long-term motivation.

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