Motivation needs an upgrade

Pink compares motivation to a computer operating system. The first version was about survival. The second, which still runs most workplaces, is built on rewards and punishments: carrots and sticks.

He argues that science shows this second version is out of date. For much of today’s work, people need a new system built on the inner drive to direct our lives, learn and do something meaningful.

Pink describes two types of behaviour. Type X is fuelled mainly by external rewards. Type I is fuelled more by the satisfaction of the activity itself. The good news, he says, is that Type I behaviour can be learned.