Founder's Journal

What motivates entrepreneurs

9 snips
May 5, 2025
Entrepreneurial motivation evolves over time. The host explores personal stories of shifting from external rewards to intrinsic passions like creativity and learning. Childhood curiosity plays a role in driving current work motivation. Balancing financial incentives with meaningful projects is highlighted as crucial for long-term success. Collaborative efforts with co-founders can reignite enthusiasm and foster sustainable motivation in business ventures.
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INSIGHT

Five Motivation Levels Explained

  • Leaders typically use five motivation levels ranging from toxic fear to love.
  • Levels three to five leave no negative residue, making them healthier for leadership and sustained success.
ANECDOTE

Motivation Rooted in Personal Trauma

  • Alex Lieberman shared how his early motivation to build Morning Brew was largely extrinsic, driven by financial fear and proving self-worth.
  • His father’s death and childhood bullying deeply shaped his intense drive to succeed and care for his family.
INSIGHT

Power and Limits of Extrinsic Motivation

  • Extrinsic motivation, driven by fear, can create intense short-term fire and effectiveness.
  • However, it is difficult to sustain once the fear or need is removed.
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