How to Increase Motivation & Drive
Andrew Huberman
89 min, 3 sec
A detailed exploration of the neuroscience of motivation, dopamine's role, and how to leverage this knowledge for better goal pursuit and enjoyment of achievements.
Summary
- Dopamine is crucial not just for the experience of pleasure but significantly for the anticipation and motivation towards things we desire.
- The balance between dopamine and prolactin regulates our drive and ability to enjoy rewards without becoming addicted or losing motivation.
- Intermittent reinforcement can sustain motivation and pleasure over time, preventing dopamine crashes and the pain of craving.
- Subjective interpretation of experiences can powerfully impact dopamine release, as shown by the altered effects of caffeine when expected to be Adderall.
Chapter 1
![Andrew Huberman introduces the Huberman Lab Podcast and its aim to provide science-based information for everyday life.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NTIwODUsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--fe1091cccaddc66de7307d635f81293d5660d116/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3154_8.jpg)
Andrew Huberman introduces the Huberman Lab Podcast and its aim to provide science-based information for everyday life.
- Hosted by Andrew Huberman, a professor of neurobiology and ophthalmology at Stanford School of Medicine.
- The podcast is separate from his academic roles but aligns with his goal to provide zero-cost consumer information about science.
- It covers various topics including the neuroscience of motivation, pleasure and reward, addictions, and the neurochemistry of drive and mindset.
![Andrew Huberman introduces the Huberman Lab Podcast and its aim to provide science-based information for everyday life.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NTIwODUsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--fe1091cccaddc66de7307d635f81293d5660d116/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3154_8.jpg)
Chapter 2
![Andrew Huberman discusses his long-term use of Athletic Greens, a supplement that provides essential nutrients and probiotics.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NTIwODcsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--00ed697eeab3795f095f747e7a95719cddbc9d08/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3154_68.jpg)
Andrew Huberman discusses his long-term use of Athletic Greens, a supplement that provides essential nutrients and probiotics.
- Athletic Greens is an all-in-one supplement that includes vitamins, minerals, and probiotics.
- Huberman has been using Athletic Greens since 2012 for its comprehensive nutrient coverage and benefits to gut-brain axis and immunity.
- Promotion includes a year supply of vitamin D3/K2 and five free travel packs.
![Andrew Huberman discusses his long-term use of Athletic Greens, a supplement that provides essential nutrients and probiotics.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NTIwODcsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--00ed697eeab3795f095f747e7a95719cddbc9d08/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3154_68.jpg)
Chapter 3
![Andrew Huberman endorses Headspace, a meditation app that provides accessible meditation practices supported by science.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NTIwODksInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--13e31489b38454c0f773febdf364331f68ead399/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3154_147.jpg)
Andrew Huberman endorses Headspace, a meditation app that provides accessible meditation practices supported by science.
- Huberman has practiced meditation for 30 years and has incorporated Headspace into his daily routine.
- Headspace offers a variety of science-supported meditations that can improve sleep, reduce impulsivity, and enhance cognition.
- A special offer provides one month of free access to all Headspace meditations.
![Andrew Huberman endorses Headspace, a meditation app that provides accessible meditation practices supported by science.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NTIwODksInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--13e31489b38454c0f773febdf364331f68ead399/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3154_147.jpg)
Chapter 4
![Andrew Huberman talks about Magic Spoon, a low-carb, keto-friendly cereal that fits into his diet and satisfies his pastry cravings.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NTIwOTEsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--15e7709f0bce8644a02a28aecab20b648c6f5b14/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3154_219.jpg)
Andrew Huberman talks about Magic Spoon, a low-carb, keto-friendly cereal that fits into his diet and satisfies his pastry cravings.
- Magic Spoon is a grain-free cereal that suits a ketogenic diet, which Huberman follows during the day to maintain alertness.
- He enjoys it as a snack, particularly the frosted flavor, which reminds him of pastries.
- Using the provided promo code, customers can get a discount on a variety pack of Magic Spoon.
![Andrew Huberman talks about Magic Spoon, a low-carb, keto-friendly cereal that fits into his diet and satisfies his pastry cravings.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NTIwOTEsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--15e7709f0bce8644a02a28aecab20b648c6f5b14/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3154_219.jpg)
Chapter 5
![Andrew Huberman announces that the podcast episodes are now captioned in Spanish on YouTube to expand accessibility.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NTIwOTMsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--4c280b28ec86c835c3a1460407812c7341d498d3/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3154_282.jpg)
Andrew Huberman announces that the podcast episodes are now captioned in Spanish on YouTube to expand accessibility.
- Episodes 1 and 2 of the Huberman Lab Podcast are captioned in Spanish, with more to follow.
- Expert captioners were hired to ensure accuracy, and the podcast aims to reach a broader Spanish-speaking audience.
- The podcast's reach will continue to expand to other languages in the near future.
![Andrew Huberman announces that the podcast episodes are now captioned in Spanish on YouTube to expand accessibility.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NTIwOTMsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--4c280b28ec86c835c3a1460407812c7341d498d3/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3154_282.jpg)
Chapter 6
![Andrew Huberman delves into the neuroscience of motivation, exploring the chemical basis of pleasure, reward, and addiction.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NTIwOTUsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--c77262029105f697325834eeb9162883cbb85950/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3154_407.jpg)
Andrew Huberman delves into the neuroscience of motivation, exploring the chemical basis of pleasure, reward, and addiction.
- Motivation is fundamentally linked to daily life, helping us to pursue goals and overcome barriers.
- Dopamine plays a central role in motivation, influencing our sense of pleasure and the urge to act.
- Understanding the neurochemistry of dopamine can empower individuals to control their motivational drives.
![Andrew Huberman delves into the neuroscience of motivation, exploring the chemical basis of pleasure, reward, and addiction.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NTIwOTUsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--c77262029105f697325834eeb9162883cbb85950/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3154_407.jpg)
Chapter 7
![Andrew Huberman discusses the discovery of dopamine and its primary functions related to motivation and movement.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NTIwOTcsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--8926593b15ec1c9b07a362724efdae7eea698de4/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3154_563.jpg)
Andrew Huberman discusses the discovery of dopamine and its primary functions related to motivation and movement.
- Dopamine was discovered in the late 1950s and was initially thought to be just a precursor to adrenaline and epinephrine.
- It is released from the VTA and nucleus accumbens, forming the core machinery of the reward pathway and influencing motivation.
- The prefrontal cortex acts as a brake on the dopamine system, regulating behavior towards pleasure-seeking actions.
![Andrew Huberman discusses the discovery of dopamine and its primary functions related to motivation and movement.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NTIwOTcsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--8926593b15ec1c9b07a362724efdae7eea698de4/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3154_563.jpg)
Chapter 8
![Andrew Huberman explains how dopamine is responsible for wanting and craving, which is distinct from the experience of pleasure itself.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NTIwOTksInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--cf9f8c7d2f86ee426de9f00c13f2c281c7fc982d/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3154_875.jpg)
Andrew Huberman explains how dopamine is responsible for wanting and craving, which is distinct from the experience of pleasure itself.
- Dopamine increases in anticipation and craving for things like food, sex, and novel experiences, leading to focused action.
- The reward pathway's activity can predict whether we will pursue goals or quit, as dopamine is tightly linked to the desire to exert effort.
- For every pleasure experienced, there is a subsequent pain response, creating a craving for more of the pleasurable stimulus.
![Andrew Huberman explains how dopamine is responsible for wanting and craving, which is distinct from the experience of pleasure itself.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NTIwOTksInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--cf9f8c7d2f86ee426de9f00c13f2c281c7fc982d/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3154_875.jpg)
Chapter 9
![Andrew Huberman discusses the addictive nature of substances like cocaine and amphetamine due to their impact on dopamine release.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NTIxMDEsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--3dc98414ef36b4ffd1e4427c28b344f3e7bb926e/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3154_1225.jpg)
Andrew Huberman discusses the addictive nature of substances like cocaine and amphetamine due to their impact on dopamine release.
- Substances like cocaine and amphetamine lead to massive dopamine release, creating a loop where individuals crave more of the same substance.
- Prolactin is released after intense experiences and can suppress the desire for further dopamine-related pursuits.
- Understanding the balance between dopamine and prolactin is key to managing motivation and avoiding addiction.
![Andrew Huberman discusses the addictive nature of substances like cocaine and amphetamine due to their impact on dopamine release.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NTIxMDEsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--3dc98414ef36b4ffd1e4427c28b344f3e7bb926e/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3154_1225.jpg)
Chapter 10
![Andrew Huberman provides actionable tools and knowledge for managing dopamine release for both motivation and enjoyment.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NTIxMDMsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--ee5113b4740f0660a05ee95d15cacc5a7cc90b25/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3154_3390.jpg)
Andrew Huberman provides actionable tools and knowledge for managing dopamine release for both motivation and enjoyment.
- Leverage dopamine schedules by understanding the balance of pleasure and pain and the subjective nature of experiences.
- Regulate dopamine through intermittent reinforcement, selective celebration of achievements, and awareness of light exposure effects.
- Tools like breathing exercises, selective supplementation, and understanding the placebo effect can enhance control over dopamine release.
![Andrew Huberman provides actionable tools and knowledge for managing dopamine release for both motivation and enjoyment.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NTIxMDMsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--ee5113b4740f0660a05ee95d15cacc5a7cc90b25/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3154_3390.jpg)
More Andrew Huberman summaries
![Master Your Sleep & Be More Alert When Awake](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/blobs/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTAzNDQsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--8b12a0dc37050b4ea6b485cc815eada43f34eff3/hqdefault.jpg)
Master Your Sleep & Be More Alert When Awake
Andrew Huberman
A detailed exploration of sleep and wakefulness, discussing their impact on mental and physical health, and practical strategies for improving sleep quality and alertness.
![Dr. Paul Conti: How to Understand & Assess Your Mental Health | Huberman Lab Guest Series](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/blobs/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTAwMTMsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--75a8ca25851816a6cc2918714354767e8e81cc08/hqdefault.jpg)
Dr. Paul Conti: How to Understand & Assess Your Mental Health | Huberman Lab Guest Series
Andrew Huberman
A detailed exploration of mental health, self-awareness, defense mechanisms, and the structure and function of self, with Dr. Paul Conti.
![Using Deliberate Cold Exposure for Health and Performance | Huberman Lab Podcast #66](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/blobs/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6Mzc5ODcsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--96590a590528c32eb8e68e99b43a9fa88fe81429/hqdefault.jpg)
Using Deliberate Cold Exposure for Health and Performance | Huberman Lab Podcast #66
Andrew Huberman
An extensive overview of deliberate cold exposure's benefits for mental toughness, mood, performance, metabolism, and inflammation reduction.
![How Your Nervous System Works & Changes](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/blobs/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6Mzg3NTAsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--5aed3386e0c7cbe1e1b948c264c4ab8a6d964376/hqdefault.jpg)
How Your Nervous System Works & Changes
Andrew Huberman
An in-depth exploration of neuroscience fundamentals and the principles of neuroplasticity.
![Dr. Rena Malik: Improving Sexual & Urological Health in Males and Females | Huberman Lab Podcast](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/blobs/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NzM1NzIsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--ea7659fbb7094dc9991b00883fb3b2c308a5d3bc/hqdefault.jpg)
Dr. Rena Malik: Improving Sexual & Urological Health in Males and Females | Huberman Lab Podcast
Andrew Huberman
A detailed exploration of urological health, pelvic floor function, and sexual well-being with Dr. Rena Malik.