Title: Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us
Author: Daniel H. Pink
First published December 29, 2009
242 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9781594488849 (ISBN10: 1594488843)
Rating: 3.95
Overview
Get ready to shift your perspective on motivation with Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us by Daniel H. Pink.
In this game-changing book, Pink challenges the conventional belief that rewards are the best way to motivate people, debunking the notion of the carrot-and-stick approach. Instead, he argues that what truly drives high performance and satisfaction is the innate human desire to control our own lives, to learn and create, and to make a positive impact on the world.
Drawing on decades of scientific research on motivation, Pink reveals the mismatch between what science knows and what businesses do, and how it affects every aspect of our lives. He lays out the three essential elements of true motivation—autonomy, mastery, and purpose—and provides practical and thought-provoking techniques for putting them into action.
This is a must-read for anyone looking to transform how they think, work, and live.
About the Author
Meet Daniel H. Pink, a thought-provoking author who has written six books, including his latest work, When: The Scientific Secrets of Perfect Timing.
This book has been a hit, spending an impressive four months on the New York Times bestseller list and being named a Best Book of 2018 by Amazon and iBooks.
Dan’s previous books include A Whole New Mind, which has been a long-standing New York Times bestseller, as well as Drive and To Sell is Human, both of which were #1 New York Times bestsellers. His books have garnered numerous awards and been translated into 39 languages.
When he’s not writing, Dan enjoys spending time with his family. He and his wife, who reside in Washington, DC, are proud parents to three children: a college senior, a college sophomore, and a high school sophomore.
Editoral Review
Daniel H. Pink’s 2009 book, “Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us,” is a fascinating exploration of human motivation and the mechanics of productivity.
Pink is a well-known author, speaker, and expert in the fields of behavioral science and management, and this book reflects his extensive research and expertise, as well as his engaging writing style. At its core, “Drive” argues that traditional carrot-and-stick methods of motivation no longer work in today’s workplace or society.
Instead, Pink suggests that people are motivated by three key drivers: autonomy, mastery, and purpose. He explores each concept in depth, providing real-world examples and empirical evidence to support his claims.
Along the way, he debunks myths about motivation and offers practical tips for individuals, managers, and organizations looking to increase productivity and engagement. One of the strengths of “Drive” is Pink’s ability to make complex concepts accessible and engaging.
He draws on a wide range of sources, from science to business to social psychology, to craft a persuasive argument that is both entertaining and informative. His anecdotes and examples are always intriguing and thought-provoking, and he presents his ideas in a clear and concise manner.
Another strength of the book is its relevance to current events and issues. Pink links his theories of motivation to larger discussions about the changing nature of work, the rise of the gig economy, and the need for creativity and innovation in a rapidly evolving world.
He also touches on broader themes of human fulfillment and purpose, making the book appealing to a wide audience beyond just business and management professionals. While “Drive” is an engaging and illuminating read, it is not without its flaws.
Some readers may find Pink’s writing style overly simplistic or repetitive, and his examples can occasionally feel contrived or forced. Additionally, some critics have pointed out that Pink’s theories of motivation are not universally applicable and may not work for every individual or organization.
Despite these limitations, “Drive” remains a valuable and insightful book for anyone interested in the complexities of human motivation and productivity. Pink’s ideas are thought-provoking and actionable, and his writing style is engaging and accessible.
For managers, entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to improve their own productivity and engagement, “Drive” is a must-read book. Rating: 4/5
