Motivation Mojo: Ignite Your Inner Drive. Motivation master series.
Jul 28, 2023
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This podcast explores the importance of motivation for entrepreneurs, including setting clear goals, understanding motivations, cultivating a positive mindset, and embracing failure as a learning opportunity. It also delves into the science of motivation, the power of intrinsic motivation, and the benefits of positive thinking. The hosts discuss the significance of purpose, mastery, and autonomy in fostering natural energy and drive, as well as the importance of aligning projects with strengths and interests to increase motivation.
Motivation can be categorized into intrinsic and extrinsic, with intrinsic motivation driven by enjoyment, purpose, growth, curiosity, and self-expression.
Purpose, mastery, and autonomy are key components of employee motivation, and focusing on improving these areas can increase motivation and satisfaction in work.
The power of incremental improvement and the role of habits are emphasized, highlighting the importance of continuous 1% improvements and being accountable for personal growth.
Deep dives
Intrinsic and Extrinsic Motivation
Motivation can be categorized into intrinsic and extrinsic. Intrinsic motivation is when you perform a task because you enjoy it and find it fun. Extrinsic motivation, on the other hand, is driven by external factors like rewards or punishments. The self-determination theory states that everyone has three psychological needs - autonomy, competence, and relatedness. Satisfaction of these needs leads to intrinsic motivation. Autonomy refers to decision-making and doing things by choice. Competence means having the right skills for a task that is neither too easy nor too hard. Relatedness refers to feeling connected to your social environment.
The Power of Intrinsic Motivation
Research shows that relying heavily on extrinsic motivators like rewards or punishments can actually harm performance and creativity. Intrinsic motivation, which is driven by enjoyment, purpose, growth, curiosity, and self-expression, leads to higher performance and fulfillment. Intrinsic motivators are personal and unique to each individual. They require effort and self-discovery to uncover. Focusing on intrinsic motivators rather than external rewards leads to long-term success and satisfaction.
Purpose, Mastery, and Autonomy
Purpose, mastery, and autonomy are key components of employee motivation. Purpose refers to the why behind your work, your legacy, and the impact you want to make. Mastery is the practice of continuous growth and improvement. Autonomy is the ability to be self-directed and have control over your work. When purpose, mastery, and autonomy intersect, you experience drive and high performance. By focusing on improving these areas, you can tap into intrinsic motivation and increase your motivation and satisfaction in your work.
Putting the Framework into Practice
To apply the framework, reflect on your intrinsic motivators such as enjoyment, purpose, growth, curiosity, and self-expression. Consider how you can incorporate more of these motivators into your daily life and work. Evaluate your purpose and make sure it aligns with your passions and values. Embrace continuous learning and seek opportunities for growth and improvement. Finally, strive for autonomy in your work by taking ownership, making decisions, and having control over how you approach tasks.
Self-determination theory and purpose, mastery, and autonomy
The podcast episode explores the concept of motivation and the importance of having a sense of purpose, striving for mastery, and seeking autonomy. Drawing from self-determination theory and the work of Daniel Pink, the episode emphasizes that intrinsic motivation is key. It highlights the significance of finding personal drive and taking ownership of one's goals and projects. The episode suggests evaluating tasks based on interest and willingness, and taking responsibility for new projects that align with one's passions. It encourages benchmarking personal growth against oneself rather than comparing to others.
Incremental improvement and building habits
The episode discusses the power of incremental improvement and the role of habits. It shares the example of the British cycling team's success, attributing it to the aggregation of marginal gains, focusing on continuous 1% improvements in various areas. Drawing from James Clear's work on atomic habits, the episode underscores the transformative potential of consistent small improvements over time. It emphasizes the importance of being open to criticism, seeking opportunities for growth outside of one's job description, and being accountable to oneself for continuous personal improvement. The episode provides resources for self-reflection and goal setting to cultivate motivation.
Motivation for entrepreneurs refers to the internal drive and determination that compels individuals to pursue their business goals, take calculated risks, and persistently work towards achieving success.
It is the passion, ambition, and enthusiasm that fuels entrepreneurs to overcome challenges, stay focused on their vision, and keep pushing forward despite obstacles. Motivated entrepreneurs are inspired by their aspirations and are willing to put in the necessary effort and hard work to turn their ideas into reality and create a successful business venture.
Here’s a concise practical guide with ten steps to get motivated and become the best version of yourself:
1. Set clear, achievable goals. 2. Break goals into manageable tasks. 3. Understand your motivations (“why”). 4. Cultivate a positive mindset. 5. Surround yourself with positive influences. 6. Establish a daily routine aligned with your goals. 7. Stay accountable and seek support. 8. Track your progress regularly. 9. Practice gratitude and focus on the positives. 10. Embrace failure as a learning opportunity.
Follow these steps to unleash your potential and become the best version of yourself!