Recapping “What Motivates People: The Real Story”

The real story of motivation is that people have psychological needs for autonomy, relatedness, and competence. It is a mistake to think that people are not motivated. They are simply longing for needs they cannot name. Do you know someone at work who wouldn't prefer to make good choices, be a positive force for good, or have a sense of wonder? I don't.

The real story of motivation is that people are learners who long to grow, enjoy their work, be productive, make positive contributions, and build lasting relationships. This is not because of motivational forces outside themselves but because it is their human nature. Chapter 3 explores why it is so challenging for people to satisfy needs that are essential to their own well-being.