Seeking Balance The Joy of Poker - Jason Su on Dirty Fuel and How to Find Reliable Motivation
May 14, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Jason Su, author of The Joy of Poker and founder of PokerWithPresence, delves into the difference between mere achievement and true success. He reveals how common motivational strategies, or 'dirty fuels,' can lead to burnout and dissatisfaction. Instead, he advocates for 'clean fuels' like confidence and curiosity, essential for sustainable joy in poker and life. Jason emphasizes the importance of presence for improving performance, making bolder decisions, and celebrating small wins to foster emotional well-being.
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Success Versus Achievement
- True success is achievement you can sustain and enjoy rather than accomplishments that cost your wellbeing.
- Jason Su argues sacrificing mental or physical health for trophies is an exchange, not real success.
Michael Jordan As A Fuel Example
- Jason uses Michael Jordan as an example of someone fueled by proving others wrong rather than enjoying success.
- Jordan fabricated slights to keep the motivation of being 'not the best' alive.
Problem-Driven Motivation Burns Out
- Most common motivators (dirty fuels) require the existence of a problem to drive you forward.
- Once the problem is solved, that fuel disappears and motivation collapses, Su explains.
