In Drive, Daniel H. Pink argues that the conventional wisdom about what motivates us is wrong. He contends that the three elements of true motivation—autonomy, mastery, and purpose—are more important than financial rewards, threats, or other forms of coercion.
In this summary, we’ll briefly discuss each of these three elements and how they can be used to increase motivation in the workplace – whether you’re a manager or employee.
Also on YouTube! Daniel Pink: Drive (Summary)
If you would like to watch the summary of Drive in video format, have a look at this video I put out on YouTube. If not, you can keep reading below!
Autonomy
According to Pink, the need for autonomy is a fundamental human desire. We want to be in control of our own lives and our own destiny.
When it comes to work, this means having some degree of control over what we do, how we do it, and when we do it.
Employees who feel like they have no control over their work are less likely to be motivated and more likely to experience anxiety and stress.
On the other hand, employees who feel like they have a say in how their work gets done are more likely to be engaged and productive.
Mastery
The second element of true motivation is mastery. Mastery is the desire to get better at something that is important to us. It’s the urge to make progress and become experts in our field.
Like autonomy, mastery is a fundamental human desire. And like autonomy, it can also be a powerful motivator at work.
Employees who feel like they’re constantly learning and growing are more likely to be engaged and productive than those who feel stuck in a rut.
Purpose
The third and final element of true motivation is purpose. Purpose is the desire to do something because we believe it’s meaningful or important. It’s what drives us to make a difference in the world.
People who are motivated by purpose are usually more engaged and productive than those who aren’t. They’re also more likely to stick with their jobs, even when times are tough.
Closing Thoughts
In this groundbreaking work, Pink argues that the three elements of true motivation—autonomy, mastery, and purpose—are more important than financial rewards, threats, or other forms of coercion.
He provides compelling evidence that these three factors are what really drive us to be engaged and productive at work.
If you’re interested in increasing your motivation, or if you’re simply curious about what really drives us, then this is the book for you.
P.S. If you intend to order this book, I would be very grateful if you use the affiliate link below. Doing so won’t cost you any extra; it will just give me a small commission, and thereby make it possible for me to keep writing these book reviews. Thank you in advance!
About the Author of Drive: Daniel Pink
Daniel Pink is the author of several books, including Drive, To Sell Is Human, and When. He is a former speechwriter for Vice President Al Gore and has also worked as a consultant for the U.S. Department of Labor.
In addition to his work as an author and consultant, Pink is also a popular TED speaker. His TED talk, “The Puzzle of Motivation,” has been viewed more than 28 million times.
Facts About Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us
Chapters:
- The Rise and Fall of Motivation 2.0
- Seven Reasons Carrots and Sticks (Often) Don’t Work
- Type I and Type X
- Autonomy
- Mastery
- Purpose
Pages: 256
Published: December 29, 2009
