Unlock Unlimited Motivation With This Hidden Brain Switch | Ep 07
Nov 3, 2023
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Discover the hidden switch in the brain that unlocks higher motivation. Explore intrinsic motivation and autonomy in work. Learn about purpose and autonomy in unlocking unlimited motivation. Understand the power of autonomy in work and how to boost intrinsic motivation.
Intrinsic motivation driven by curiosity, purpose, mastery, autonomy, and auto-telicity is self-sustaining and leads to limitless motivation and flow state.
Aligning intrinsic motivators such as curiosity, mastery, auto-telicity, purpose, and autonomy with one's work can result in increased motivation, performance, and the ability to access flow state.
Deep dives
Upgrade Your Fuel Source for Limitless Motivation
The podcast episode discusses the difference between extrinsic and intrinsic motivation and how upgrading your fuel source can lead to limitless motivation. Extrinsic motivation, based on external rewards, eventually runs out, while intrinsic motivation, driven by curiosity, purpose, mastery, autonomy, and auto-telicity, is self-sustaining and long-lasting. By focusing on these intrinsic motivators, one can increase motivation and access flow state. The episode also shares personal experiences of the host and how aligning intrinsic motivators led to a career shift with higher motivation and fulfillment.
The Power of Intrinsic Motivation and Flow State
Intrinsic motivators such as curiosity, mastery, auto-telicity, purpose, and autonomy have a profound impact on motivation and performance. High levels of intrinsic motivation release performance-enhancing neurochemicals, enhance focus, and drive flow state. Flow state, in turn, compounds intrinsic motivation, creating a virtuous cycle of increased motivation and flow. Peak performers across various fields, including artists, athletes, and entrepreneurs, demonstrate the alignment of intrinsic motivators and sustained motivation through their accomplishments.
Boosting Intrinsic Motivators for Unstoppable Drive
To increase intrinsic motivators, the episode provides strategies for each motivator. For curiosity, leverage learning and immediate feedback by connecting new knowledge to tangible positive results. Mastery can be enhanced through deliberate practice, setting up a feedback loop of skills improvement and seeking greater challenges. Cultivating auto-telicity involves focusing on activities you're naturally good at and spending time in flow state. Purpose is strengthened by articulating a clear correlation between work tasks and a broader mission. Autonomy can be boosted by framing work within a self-designed life trajectory and creating optionality outside of work. By dialing up each intrinsic motivator, one can achieve unstoppable motivation and tap into flow state more frequently.