The Truth About Motivation

Motivation ebbs and flows like waves—don't rely on it

Motivation Wave Curve

Motivation isn't constant—it fluctuates over time

High Motivation
Low Motivation
65
Morning
Forenoon
Noon
Afternoon
Evening
Drag slider to see motivation changes65%
High Motivation State
Full of energy, want to do everything!
✔ Current State
Medium Motivation
Okay, but need a little push
Low Motivation State
Exhausted, don't want to do anything

Key Insight: Don't try to boost motivation; design behaviors that work even when motivation is low

Common Misconceptions

Click to expand

Myth 1: I just lack motivation

Myth 2: Motivation is stable

Myth 3: Willpower solves everything

Myth 4: Give up if motivation is low

Myth 5: Boosting motivation is key

Fogg's Solution

1

Don't Rely on Motivation

Motivation is fluctuating and unreliable. Don't wait until you feel 'motivated' to start. Design behaviors that you can do even when motivation is low.

2

Lower Difficulty, Not Raise Motivation

Instead of trying to motivate yourself, make the behavior easier. Turn 'exercise 30 mins' into 'put on gym shoes'.

3

Leverage Motivation Waves

When motivation is high, don't just do the hard behavior. Use that energy to design systems and prepare your environment so it's easy to do when motivation drops.