2951: The Best & Less-Than-Best Motivations for Learning by Leo Babauta of Zen Habits on Motivation & Inspiration For Your Life
Oct 27, 2023
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Leo Babauta, creator of Zen Habits, discusses motivations for learning including curiosity and the desire to explore something new. He also explores the importance of taking on challenges and the different motivations for learning, such as having fun and learning with others.
Focusing solely on a big goal can lead to losing motivation, while genuine curiosity sustains long-term commitment.
Doing something with someone else adds motivation and support, while caring deeply about the subject provides lasting motivation.
Deep dives
Less Than Best Motivations for Learning
Setting a big goal as the primary motivator for learning can lead to losing momentum after a week or two, as the fulfillment of a big goal takes time. Wanting to make quick progress can also be demotivating, as real progress often requires dedication and months of work. Taking on a challenge simply because it sounds nice or aligns with an ideal self can result in quitting when things get difficult or when the ideal loses importance.
Best Motivations for Learning
Curiosity has been found to be a powerful motivator for learning, as a genuine interest in the subject matter encourages long-term commitment. Exploring something new and allowing oneself to play and discover can sustain motivation. Doing it with someone else, whether a friend or family member, adds motivation and support. Caring deeply about the subject or having a genuine desire to prove oneself capable of tackling difficult challenges provides lasting motivation.
Episode 2951: The Best & Less-Than-Best Motivations for Learning by Leo Babauta of Zen Habits on Motivation & Inspiration For Your Life
Leo Babauta created Zen Habits, which is about finding simplicity and mindfulness in the daily chaos of our lives. It’s about clearing the clutter so we can focus on what’s important, create something amazing, find happiness.