Would you say that what motivates you comes from an internal drive or an external incentive? Are you energized by a reward or by avoiding punishment? Or is there a deeper satisfaction that is more intrinsic in your approach to work, play and relationships? Examining decades of studies and scientific research on human behavior, Daniel Pink asks us to rethink our perspective in Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us.

Pink dismisses conventional wisdom that our motivation is always best altered by “carrot-and-stick” methods. By comparing and contrasting history and our evolving culture and business models, he presents a compelling case for improving performance and deepening satisfaction by focusing on:

Autonomy – our desire to be self-directed
Mastery – our urge to get better at what we do
Purpose – our yearning to be part of something larger than ourselves

Whether you have the responsibility of motivating others or yourself, Drive is an interesting and practical read applicable to every aspect of life.

This entry was posted on Wednesday, June 23rd, 2010 at 10:01 am and is filed under Culture, Knowledge.