Drive

In "Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us," Daniel H. Pink challenges traditional notions of motivation, revealing that money isn't the primary driver of human behavior. Instead, he introduces concepts of autonomy, mastery, and purpose as the keys to unlocking our potential. Through compelling research and real-world examples, Pink illustrates how these intrinsic motivators lead to greater innovation and satisfaction. As organizations struggle to inspire their teams, this groundbreaking perspective shifts the focus from carrots and sticks to a more enlightened approach to leadership. Dive into this thought-provoking exploration and discover how to reignite your passion for work and life!

By Daniel H. Pink

Published: 2011

"People want to do things for their own reasons."

DriveBook binding

Start Listening

0:000:00

What Readers Say About This Book

The New York Times bestseller that gives readers a paradigm-shattering new way to think about motivation from the author of When: The Scientific Secrets of Perfect Timing Most people believe that the best way to motivate is with rewards like money—the carrot-and-stick approach. That's a mistake, says Daniel H. Pink (author of To Sell Is Human: The Surprising Truth About Motivating Others). In this provocative and persuasive new book, he asserts that the secret to high performance and satisfaction-at work, at school, and at home—is the deeply human need to direct our own lives, to learn and create new things, and to do better by ourselves and our world. Drawing on four decades of scientific research on human motivation, Pink exposes the mismatch between what science knows and what business does—and how that affects every aspect of life. He examines the three elements of true motivation—autonomy, mastery, and purpose-and offers smart and surprising techniques for putting these into action in a unique book that will change how we think and transform how we live.

Mike & Casey Show Logo

The Mike & Casey Show

Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts

Key Points from Drive

About the Author

D

Daniel H. Pink

Daniel H. Pink is a bestselling author known for his works on business, work, and human behavior. His notable books include "Drive," which explores the science of motivation, and "To Sell Is Human," which examines the art of persuasion in modern society. Pink's insights blend psychology and economics, and he frequently speaks on topics related to the changing nature of work in the 21st century. With a background in law and a previous role as a speechwriter for Al Gore, he brings a unique perspective to his writing and public speaking. Pink’s work has been translated into multiple languages and has influenced leaders and organizations around the globe.

Book Details

Key information about the book.

Authors
Daniel H. Pink
Published
April 2011
Publisher
Penguin
ISBN
1101524383
Language
English
Pages
275
Genres
Self-HelpBusiness and EconomicsPersonal GrowthLeadership Theories

Purchase Options

Amazon logoBuy on Amazon
BookShop logoBuy via BookShop

Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!

Similar books you might like →

Captive PrinceBook binding

Captive Prince

C. S. Pacat

Throne of GlassBook binding

Throne of Glass

Sarah J. Maas

A Court of Thorns and RosesBook binding

A Court of Thorns and Roses

Sarah J. Maas

The Book of ThreeBook binding

The Book of Three

Lloyd Alexander

The Hunger GamesBook binding

The Hunger Games

Suzanne Collins

The Road Less TravelledBook binding

The Road Less Travelled

Morgan Scott Peck

AntifragileBook binding

Antifragile

Nassim Nicholas Taleb

The Blessing of a B MinusBook binding

The Blessing of a B Minus

Wendy Mogel

Company of OneBook binding

Company of One

Paul Jarvis

12 Rules for LifeBook binding

12 Rules for Life

Jordan B. Peterson

The Purpose Driven LifeBook binding

The Purpose Driven Life

Rick Warren

Leadership and Self-DeceptionBook binding

Leadership and Self-Deception

The Arbinger Institute

Conscious BusinessBook binding

Conscious Business

Fred Kofman

The Gap of TimeBook binding

The Gap of Time

Jeanette Winterson

Hell Yes, I'd Do It AgainBook binding

Hell Yes, I'd Do It Again

T. Fred Harvey

Love and WillBook binding

Love and Will

Rollo May

The Road Less Traveled, Timeless EditionBook binding

The Road Less Traveled, Timeless Edition

M. Scott Peck

Eyes on the StreetBook binding

Eyes on the Street

Robert Kanigel

What Got You Here Won't Get You ThereBook binding

What Got You Here Won't Get You There

Marshall Goldsmith, Mark Reiter

59 SecondsBook binding

59 Seconds

Richard Wiseman

The Meaning RevolutionBook binding

The Meaning Revolution

Fred Kofman

Take your reading experience to the next level

Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.

Download on the App Store

Book Collections you might like →

Alex Lieberman's Book Recommendations

Alex Lieberman's Book Recommendations

Alex Lieberman is the co-founder and executive chairman of Morning Brew, a media company that delivers engaging business news. Under his leadership, Morning Brew has grown to reach millions of subscribers, becoming a significant player in modern business journalism. Lieberman is also known for his insightful commentary on entrepreneurship and media trends. His work has significantly influenced the way business news is consumed by younger audiences. Beyond Morning Brew, Lieberman frequently writes and speaks about the intersection of media and technology, further cementing his role as a thought leader in the industry.

View Collection
Naval Ravikant's Book Recommendations

Naval Ravikant's Book Recommendations

Naval Ravikant is an entrepreneur, angel investor, and philosopher, best known as the co-founder of AngelList, a platform that connects startups with investors. Ravikant is a prolific thinker and writer on topics such as startups, investing, and personal well-being, sharing his wisdom through essays, podcasts, and social media. He has invested in over 100 companies, including Uber, Twitter, and Yammer, making him one of Silicon Valley’s most successful angel investors. Ravikant is also known for his philosophical musings on wealth, happiness, and the meaning of life, which have garnered him a large and dedicated following.

View Collection
Todd Henry's Book Recommendations

Todd Henry's Book Recommendations

Todd Henry is a renowned author, speaker, and consultant best known for his expertise in creativity, productivity, and leadership. He gained widespread acclaim with his book "The Accidental Creative: How to Be Brilliant at a Moment's Notice," which offers practical strategies for maximizing creative potential. Henry followed up with other influential works, including "Die Empty," "Louder Than Words," and "Herding Tigers," each delving into aspects of purposeful living and effective team management. As the founder of Accidental Creative, a company providing resources and workshops for creative professionals, he has significantly impacted the way individuals and organizations approach innovation. Todd Henry continues to inspire and equip professionals globally through his writing, podcasting, and speaking engagements.

View Collection
Ryan Holiday's Book Recommendations

Ryan Holiday's Book Recommendations

Ryan Holiday is a bestselling author and media strategist known for his books on stoicism, including The Obstacle Is the Way and Ego Is the Enemy. He is a leading voice in modern stoic philosophy, teaching readers how to apply ancient wisdom to achieve personal and professional success. Holiday’s work emphasizes resilience, discipline, and humility as keys to navigating life’s challenges. He has consulted with major companies and individuals on marketing and strategy, blending stoic principles with contemporary business practices. His books have been translated into over 30 languages.

View Collection
Alexis Ohanian's Book Recommendations

Alexis Ohanian's Book Recommendations

Alexis Ohanian is an American entrepreneur, investor, and co-founder of Reddit, one of the world’s most popular social news and discussion platforms. Ohanian is also a prominent advocate for open internet and net neutrality, and he has invested in numerous startups through his venture capital firm, Initialized Capital. In addition to his work in tech, Ohanian is involved in philanthropy, supporting causes related to women’s rights, education, and social justice. He is married to tennis star Serena Williams, and together they advocate for gender equality and inclusive leadership. Ohanian’s influence in the tech world and his commitment to social impact have made him a respected figure in both business and activism.

View Collection
Morgan Housel's Book Recommendations

Morgan Housel's Book Recommendations

Morgan Housel is a financial writer and partner at The Collaborative Fund, best known for his book The Psychology of Money. His work explores the behavioral side of finance, emphasizing how emotions, history, and decision-making impact wealth-building. Housel’s writing is widely praised for being accessible, insightful, and engaging, making complex financial topics easier to understand. He contributes regularly to financial publications and speaks at conferences on the power of long-term thinking in finance. His book has become a modern classic in the personal finance genre.

View Collection
Ann Handley's Book Recommendations

Ann Handley's Book Recommendations

Ann Handley is a renowned digital marketing pioneer and a Wall Street Journal bestselling author. She is the author of "Everybody Writes," a seminal guide on creating compelling content, and co-author of "Content Rules," which outlines effective content marketing strategies. As the Chief Content Officer at MarketingProfs, she has significantly influenced modern marketing practices. Handley is also a highly sought-after keynote speaker, known for her insights on digital content and marketing trends. Her work has empowered countless marketers to elevate their content creation and strategy efforts.

View Collection
Andrew Chen's Book Recommendations

Andrew Chen's Book Recommendations

Andrew Chen is a venture capitalist, entrepreneur, and thought leader in growth marketing, currently serving as a general partner at Andreessen Horowitz. Chen is known for his expertise in network effects, viral growth strategies, and marketplace dynamics, making him a sought-after advisor for startups looking to scale. Prior to joining Andreessen Horowitz, he worked in leadership roles at Uber, helping to grow the ride-sharing platform’s user base and develop key growth strategies. Chen is also a prolific writer, sharing his insights on growth, technology, and startups through his popular blog and newsletter, which has attracted a loyal following in the tech community. His work has helped shape how many startups approach user acquisition, retention, and product-market fit. As a venture capitalist, Chen focuses on early-stage companies in the consumer internet, SaaS, and marketplace sectors, and he has been involved in funding and advising several successful startups. His insights on technology and growth continue to influence both founders and investors alike.

View Collection
Sophie Bakalar's Book Recommendations

Sophie Bakalar's Book Recommendations

Sophie Bakalar is a distinguished author and venture capitalist known for her adept storytelling and insightful exploration of contemporary issues. Her debut novel received critical acclaim for its nuanced portrayal of complex characters and societal dynamics. In addition to her literary achievements, Bakalar is a co-founder of a successful venture firm, where she leverages her keen understanding of market trends and innovation. Her essays and articles, often featured in prominent publications, reflect her deep engagement with cultural and technological shifts. Bakalar's multifaceted career bridges the worlds of literature and entrepreneurship, making her a unique voice in both fields.

View Collection
Bill Gates's Book Recommendations

Bill Gates's Book Recommendations

Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft Corporation, is a pioneering figure in the tech industry, having played a key role in the personal computer revolution. His work at Microsoft, particularly the development of Windows, transformed software and computing globally. Beyond his technology contributions, Gates is also a prolific author, with notable works such as "The Road Ahead" and "Business @ the Speed of Thought," which offer insights into the future of technology and business. Additionally, his philanthropic efforts through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation have had a profound impact on global health, education, and poverty. Gates continues to influence both technology and literature with his forward-thinking perspectives and innovative ideas.

View Collection
Mark Hyman's Book Recommendations

Mark Hyman's Book Recommendations

Dr. Mark Hyman is a leading physician in functional medicine, advocating for using food as medicine to combat chronic disease. He has written numerous bestselling books, including Food: What the Heck Should I Eat?, focusing on nutrition and wellness. Dr. Hyman is the founder of The UltraWellness Center and has appeared frequently on television as an expert in health and wellness. He is also a senior advisor for the Cleveland Clinic’s Center for Functional Medicine. His work champions holistic health and lifestyle changes.

View Collection
Richard Branson's Book Recommendations

Richard Branson's Book Recommendations

Richard Branson is a British entrepreneur and founder of the Virgin Group, which operates in sectors ranging from airlines to space travel. Branson’s entrepreneurial journey began in the 1970s with Virgin Records, and he has since built one of the most recognized brands in the world. Known for his adventurous spirit and willingness to take risks, Branson has pursued innovative ventures like Virgin Galactic, aiming to pioneer commercial space tourism. He is also a philanthropist, focusing on environmental sustainability and global health issues. Branson's bold and unconventional approach to business has made him a global icon of entrepreneurship.

View Collection
Ryan Hoover's Book Recommendations

Ryan Hoover's Book Recommendations

Ryan Hoover is the founder of Product Hunt, a popular platform where users discover and share new tech products, apps, and tools. Hoover started Product Hunt as a side project, which quickly grew into a thriving community for tech enthusiasts and entrepreneurs. The platform has helped launch countless startups and has become an essential resource for finding innovative products. In addition to Product Hunt, Hoover is an investor and writer, often sharing insights on startup culture and product development. His work has made him a key figure in the tech and startup ecosystems.

View Collection
Alfred Lin's Book Recommendations

Alfred Lin's Book Recommendations

Alfred Lin is a venture capitalist and partner at Sequoia Capital, where he focuses on investments in consumer internet, enterprise, and mobile companies. Lin is known for his early investments in companies like Airbnb and DoorDash, helping them grow into major global brands. Before joining Sequoia, Lin was an executive at Zappos, where he worked closely with CEO Tony Hsieh to develop the company’s innovative culture and customer service model. Lin’s expertise in scaling businesses and his strategic vision have made him one of the most respected venture capitalists in Silicon Valley.

View Collection
Guy Spier's Book Recommendations

Guy Spier's Book Recommendations

Guy Spier is a renowned value investor and author, best known for his influential book "The Education of a Value Investor," which offers deep insights into the principles of value investing and personal development. An alumnus of Harvard Business School and Oxford University, Spier has carved a niche in the financial world with his disciplined investment philosophy. He is the managing partner of the Aquamarine Fund, an investment partnership inspired by the principles of Warren Buffett. Spier gained widespread recognition for his charitable winning bid to have lunch with Buffett, a move that significantly bolstered his reputation in the investment community. Through his writing and public speaking, Spier continues to inspire both novice and seasoned investors with his ethical approach to investing and life.

View Collection
Ali Abdaal's Book Recommendations

Ali Abdaal's Book Recommendations

Ali Abdaal is a renowned productivity expert, author, and YouTuber known for his engaging content on personal development and effective study techniques. A former doctor, Abdaal transitioned from his medical career to focus on sharing insights through his popular YouTube channel, which has amassed millions of subscribers. He is the author of "YouTube for Doctors," where he explores the intersection of medicine and digital content creation. Abdaal's work is celebrated for its practical advice, blending scientific research with personal anecdotes to help individuals optimize their lives. His contributions have significantly influenced the productivity and self-improvement community, making him a respected voice in the field.

View Collection
PewDiePie's Book Recommendations

PewDiePie's Book Recommendations

PewDiePie, born Felix Kjellberg in 1989, is a Swedish YouTuber renowned for his Let's Play videos and comedic content, making him one of the most subscribed and influential figures on the platform. Beyond his online presence, Kjellberg is also an accomplished author; his book "This Book Loves You," published in 2015, became a New York Times Bestseller. Known for his distinctive and engaging style, PewDiePie has significantly impacted internet culture and digital entertainment. He has also used his platform for philanthropic efforts, raising substantial funds for various charities. His career exemplifies the intersection of digital media and traditional publishing, showcasing his versatility and broad appeal.

View Collection
Stewart Brand's Book Recommendations

Stewart Brand's Book Recommendations

Stewart Brand is an influential American writer, best known for founding the Whole Earth Catalog, a publication that became a cornerstone of the counter-culture movement in the late 1960s and early 1970s. His pioneering work in promoting environmental sustainability and self-sufficiency has had a lasting impact on both literature and society. Brand is also a co-founder of The WELL, an early online community that predated the widespread use of the internet and helped shape the development of digital culture. He has authored several significant books, including "The Media Lab" and "Whole Earth Discipline," which explore technology's role in environmental and societal issues. Brand's contributions continue to influence contemporary discussions on ecology, technology, and community building.

View Collection
Adam Grant's Book Recommendations

Adam Grant's Book Recommendations

Adam Grant is a renowned organizational psychologist and bestselling author, celebrated for his influential work on motivation and workplace dynamics. He is a professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he has been the youngest tenured professor and earned numerous teaching awards. Grant's books, including "Give and Take," "Originals," and "Think Again," have been translated into multiple languages and have topped bestseller lists worldwide. His research and insights are frequently featured in major media outlets, and he hosts the popular podcast "WorkLife." Through his writing and speaking, Grant has profoundly impacted the fields of psychology, business, and education.

View Collection

People want to do things for their own reasons.

Drive

By Daniel H. Pink

Frequently Asked Questions