The carrot or the stick?
Or maybe none...
People believe motivation can be either a carrot or a stick. You know, like the famous saying.
But that never turned anyone into a high achiever.
Why?
Because both the carrot and the stick are external motivators:
The stick: “If I don’t do this, I’ll fail.”
The carrot: “If I do this, I’ll reward myself later.”
Both seem effective, but neither builds sustainable growth.
Why?
Because these are “means” goals. Not the actual “end” goal. It puts you in a constant grind without a guide.
Both are using stress as a lever. And stress shuts down creativity, focus, and energy.
It triggers survival mode, not flow. It kills creativity, clarity, and deep motivation.
You might hit the goal, but you’ll also lose your energy and joy in the process.
That’s why this works very effectively for high performers, but never for high achievers.
High achievers are creative people.
They come up with a solution when no one knows the right path. Their fuel is called intrinsic motivation. It comes from within. From purpose. From vision. From the urge to become better.
So how do you find that?
I have one favorite exercise for this:
The 3 Most Important Questions
(From Vishen Lakhiani)
What do I want to experience?
In life, work, relationships, and energy.How do I want to grow?
What skills, strengths, or habits do I want to build?How do I want to contribute?
What impact do I want to make on others, my audience, or the world?
Answer these in detail. Write them down. Then use them as your daily compass.
You Vishen’s video for more details:
And remember to have a GUT time in the process!
Yana