#3 How to Nurture (or Kill) Motivation on Your Team: Lessons from Self-Determination Theory

In this episode, we explore the psychology of motivation through the lens of Self-Determination Theory—a powerful framework developed by Edward Deci and Richard Ryan. Learn how intrinsic motivation drives long-term engagement and how you, as a leader, can nurture or inadvertently kill motivation on your team.

Discover the three universal psychological needs that fuel motivation—Autonomy, Competence, and Relatedness—and actionable strategies to create a thriving, inspired workplace. We’ll also unpack the ways toxic leadership styles, like micromanaging or autocratic tendencies, can destroy motivation and creativity.

If you’re ready to unlock your team’s potential and avoid common pitfalls, this episode is for you!

Challenge for Listeners:
This week, reflect on how the three psychological needs—autonomy, competence, and relatedness—show up in your life and on your team. What’s one small change you can make to foster motivation in yourself or others?

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