The Suprising Science of Motivation: Dan Pink [Video]

Do “If-Then” rewards diminish creativity?

Is the extrinsic “carrot and stick” ideology outdated? Well, science says it is. In the TEDTv video below, career analyst – Dan Pink discusses the obvious mismatch between what science knows about motivation and what business does. It examines how many organizations continue to make management decisions based on assumptions that are outdated and rooted in tradition rather than in science.

So what do social scientists know that most business managers don’t?

Traditional rewards aren’t always as effective as we think. Science suggests that if we really want to achieve higher personal performance that the solution is not to do more of the “same-ole, same-ole”– that enticing people with a sweeter carrot or threatening them with a sharper stick is no longer feasible. And that the traditional tactics of management are fine for compliance; but if we’re truly looking to achieve engagement, self-direction works better.

So what do we do?

Well, scientists who have been studying motivation have given us a new approach built around intrinsic motivation. A new motivation operating system for businesses that revolves around three elements: autonomy, mastery and purpose. Autonomy, the urge to direct our own lives. Mastery, the desire to get better and better at something that matters. Purpose, the yearning to do what we do in the service of something larger than ourselves. A powerful “intrinsic trifecta” that not only connects to our core attitudes toward performance and achievement, but also creates an environment for self-expression and creativity.

So enjoy this engaging video of Dan Pink as he examines the fascinating puzzle of motivation.

About Dan Pink: Former speech writer for Al Gore. Freelance career analyst.