How is successful performance often measured in the context of motivation?

Successful performance in the context of motivation is often measured through personal levels of satisfaction because this focus highlights the individual's subjective experience and internal satisfaction derived from their achievements. Personal satisfaction can be a strong indicator of motivation, as when individuals find joy or fulfillment in their activities, they are more likely to remain engaged and persistent. This internal perspective emphasizes the importance of setting personal goals and recognizing one's progress, rather than solely relying on external indicators or competitive outcomes.

In contrast, while external feedback can influence motivation, it does not encompass the full breadth of a person's internal drive. The balance of motivation types might be relevant but does not singularly reflect the individual's perception of their success. Lastly, using competition statistics as the only measure overlooks the personal and emotional aspects of performance, which are critical for sustained motivation over time.