Daniel Pink’s first book, A Whole New Mind, explored his thesis that society, and the workplace in particular, is in the midst of a fundamental shift from left-brain, rule-based routine work to right-brain, non-routine, creative and conceptual work. In Drive. Pink explores the implications of this shift for how we motivate and reward workers in the fluid world economy of the new century. The approach of the traditional workplace is a carrot-and-stick one based on the hope
of gain and the fear of loss. But this approach, Pink insists, shortchanges what really makes people tick, especially in an economy that hinges more than ever on innovation.
The author instead identifies far more powerful motivators, draws on the latest research in psychology, economics, and sociology, and includes a number of interesting case studies showing these motivators at work. A closing toolkit section provides a wealth of information and resources for applying the concepts, from how we can spark our motivation and ways business leaders can improve their companies, to the implications for child-rearing and staying fit. It’s a stimulating read on motivation that can be applied to all areas of life.
