Confirming Theories – Drive by Daniel Pink

The way I approach my happiness research is that I find what I believe to be “happiness principles” and then I develop a theory around those principles.  I then test that theory in my own life and look for corroborating research in other areas that might support my theory.  The more evidence I find in the world to support my theory the more confident I am in my theory.  But, I’m as equally vigilant about evidence that dispels my theory.  I have no agenda but the truth.

I came across a recent book that supports some of the happiness theories I have been applying.  The book is Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us by Daniel Pink.  The basic idea of Pink’s Drive is that we are naturally driven by certain things and that sometimes, surprising, our natural drives to work, solve problems and be creative can be muted by the traditional carrot and stick approach, including money and rewards.  Pink points out research showing that we are naturally curious, problem solvers and producers and that we do so because we have an inherent desire for (1) autonomy (being in control of what we do), (2) mastery (getting better at something and becoming an expert) and (3) purpose (finding meaning in our work and lives).

This supports the findings by Dr. Corey Keyes and his research that I pointed out in my blog The Goal Is To Flourish, But Not Too Much.  Keyes’ research came up with at least 10 different areas we have to consider when evaluating our own happiness.  Three of those are the ones Pink points out in his book.

Does this make the findings dispositive?  No.  In these types of areas all we have is our theories.  Some are just supported by more evidence than others and they’re all ultimately very personal. 

But here’s what I’d suggest given these two findings (which are also supported by many other researchers):

1.    Find ways to gain more control in your life.
Exercise your freedom to act and be in control of your schedule, activities, work and social relationships.  Eliminate more “shoulds” in your life and focus on what it is you feel compelled to accomplish.

2.    Evaluate the things you’re good at and find ways to get better at those things.
You’re good at something, and likely many things.  Make a list of those things and take steps to make yourself better.  You’ll feel a sense of accomplishment and the world will be a better place for your being better.

3.    Find purpose in what you do.
It doesn’t matter what it is you do.  Just recognize that what you do, and especially what you do well, has a much higher purpose than the actual task.  And don’t minimize it because you don’t see the larger picture.  Recognize that what you do has a unique purpose in this world.  The more you understand and appreciate that the happier you’ll be.

We can’t be certain of many things, but I’m very certain that we all have a right and desire to be happier.  Test your theories and stay focused.  It can happen.