773: How to Align Your Motivation, with Nir Eyal

Nir Eyal: Beyond Belief

Nir Eyal writes, consults, and teaches about the intersection of psychology, technology, and business. He is the author of two bestselling books, Hooked and Indistractable, selling more than a million copies and translated in over 30 languages. He is the author of the new book, Beyond Belief: The Science-Backed Way to Stop Limiting Yourself and Achieve Breakthrough Results (Amazon, Bookshop)*.

Most of us recognize that a huge part of what motivates us – or not – is our own thinking. In this conversation, Nir and I explore where our beliefs get in the way and how we can align them just a bit to help us move forward.

Key Points

• A sentence starting with “I am…” can be among the most dangerous in any language. Often, our beliefs limit us.
• Belief is the foundation of the motivation triangle that includes benefit and behavior. Yet, we often overlook beliefs.
• Curt Richter’s study of rats in the 1950s shows how an animal’s belief system can massively influence its behavior.
• The real question isn’t “Is this belief true?” but rather, “Does this belief serve me?”
• You can choose beliefs based on usefulness, not certainty.
• Difficulty may mean we are not cut out for something, but it might also be evidence of growth. Too often, we quit too soon.
• Progress comes from consistent action, not perfect plans.

Resources Mentioned

• Beyond Belief: The Science-Backed Way to Stop Limiting Yourself and Achieve Breakthrough Results (Amazon, Bookshop)* by Nir Eyal.

Interview Notes

Download my interview notes in PDF format (free membership required).

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