What is your passion and how to find/create it.
Manoj Chawla
MD @ EasyPeasy Limited, Award winning Transformation & Innovation Guru, C level positions ex Accenture, BT, PWC, Diageo, ICI.
Traditional Economics and Organisational Reward systems focus on (monetary) reward but we know that life is more than that.
Personal Mastery and Passion is intimately connected with Cognitive Engagement and Meaning (and intrinsic motivation).? The more we engage with something the more we enjoy and learn about it and this creates a virtuous loop to learn more or get better at it.
Neuroscience has taught us that dopamine is also a “learning” hormone and that learning is also connected to pleasure too.?
Be it a sport, hobby or work we truly engage with; the more we enjoy it and the better we get at it.? It is hard to imagine us persevering with something unless it truly engages us.
We implicitly understand the importance of engaging our hearts and minds if we are to continue a particular activity, behaviour, relationship etc.
The Ikea Effect
The "IKEA effect" study, and the experiment conducted by Dan Ariely, Michael Norton, and Daniel Mochon, examined how people value their own labour and how their motivation and satisfaction are influenced by the meaningfulness of their work.
In their experiment, participants were asked to build Lego models. The study had two main conditions:
Meaningful Condition: Participants built a Lego model and were praised for their work. Their completed models were displayed, giving them a sense of accomplishment and meaning from their task.
Sisyphus Condition: Named after the mythological figure Sisyphus, who was condemned to repeatedly roll a boulder up a hill only to watch it roll back down, participants in this condition built the same Lego model, but after completing it, the model was immediately disassembled in front of them, and they were asked to rebuild it again. Despite being rewarded, the repeated destruction of their work made the task feel meaningless.
Key Findings
Impact of Meaningfulness on Motivation: The study found that participants in the meaningful condition were more motivated and willing to continue building additional Lego models compared to those in the Sisyphus condition, even though the latter were offered higher rewards for their work. This demonstrates that people derive significant motivation and satisfaction from the perceived meaningfulness of their tasks.
Value of Labour: The experiment highlighted how people place a higher value on their own labour when they see it as meaningful. When their work is acknowledged and preserved, they feel a greater sense of accomplishment and are more willing to invest effort.
Psychological Cost of Meaninglessness: The Sisyphus condition illustrated the psychological cost of meaningless work. Even though participants were financially compensated, the lack of meaning in their task led to lower motivation and satisfaction.
Learning and Fun
While we learn to avoid (emotional, mental, physical) pain, we also learn what is pleasurable via our pleasure circuits.
Dopamine is often referred to as a "learning hormone" or neurotransmitter because it plays a critical role in the processes of learning, motivation, and reward.
This normally works because when we are successful, we get rewarded and this this creates a “pleasure circuit” and as we get more successful and more rewarded it creates a virtuous circuit.
Engaging more parts of our brain can enhance pleasure is based on the concept of cognitive engagement and the brain's reward system. (hence our love of being creative, solving problems and the need for challenge).
1.?Reward Prediction and Reinforcement Learning
Dopamine is crucial in the brain's reward system, which helps reinforce behaviours by making them more likely to occur again in the future. This system is key to reinforcement learning, where behaviours are shaped by their consequences.
Reward Prediction Error: Dopamine neurons in the brain, particularly in areas like the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and the substantia nigra, respond to unexpected rewards or the absence of expected rewards. This response is known as a reward prediction error. When an outcome is better than expected, dopamine levels increase, reinforcing the behaviour that led to the reward. Conversely, when an outcome is worse than expected, dopamine levels decrease, signalling that the behaviour should be modified.
Learning through Feedback: This mechanism helps individuals learn from feedback. For instance, if a student answers a question correctly and receives praise (reward), dopamine is released, reinforcing the learning. If they answer incorrectly and receive corrective feedback, the absence of the expected reward (or the presence of negative feedback) also provides valuable information, prompting them to adjust their understanding.
2.?Motivation and Goal-Directed Behaviour
Dopamine is also involved in motivation and goal-directed behaviour. It helps initiate and sustain efforts toward achieving a goal, which is a crucial aspect of learning and performance.
Motivation: High levels of dopamine can enhance motivation, making individuals more likely to engage in activities that lead to positive outcomes. This is particularly evident in tasks that require sustained effort or learning new skills, where dopamine helps maintain focus and drive.
Anticipation of Reward: Dopamine is released not just when a reward is received, but also in anticipation of a reward. This anticipation can be a powerful motivator, encouraging individuals to engage in behaviours that are expected to lead to rewarding outcomes, such as studying for an exam or practicing a musical instrument.
3.?Attention and Cognitive Function
Dopamine plays a role in regulating attention and cognitive processes, which are critical for learning.
Attention Regulation: Adequate levels of dopamine are necessary for maintaining attention and focus. Inadequate dopamine function, as seen in conditions like ADHD, can lead to difficulties in sustaining attention, which can impede learning.
Cognitive Flexibility and Adaptation: Dopamine is involved in cognitive flexibility, which is the ability to adapt thinking and behaviour in response to changing environments or rules. This flexibility is important for problem-solving and learning, as it allows individuals to adjust their strategies based on new information or feedback.
4.?Emotional Learning and Memory
Dopamine also influences emotional learning and memory, which are important for learning from experiences and adapting behaviour.
Emotional Salience: Dopamine helps assign emotional significance to experiences, making emotionally charged events more memorable. This can enhance learning by making important experiences more likely to be remembered and learned from.
Memory Consolidation: Dopamine can influence the consolidation of memories, particularly those associated with rewarding or aversive events. This means that experiences associated with strong emotions are more likely to be retained, which is a key aspect of learning from both positive and negative outcomes.
Dopamine is integral to the processes of learning and memory. It helps encode reward signals, motivates behaviour, regulates attention, and enhances emotional learning. These functions make dopamine crucial for acquiring new knowledge and skills, adapting to new situations, and optimizing behaviour based on past experiences.
Organisations etc use “rewards” to motivate us and success begets success but if these pleasures are extrinsic, we cease these activities when the “rewards” such as bonuses or validations cease.
Intrinsic Motivation is far more powerful. Hence the importance of finding and our creating our own “passion”.
Our brain is the ultimate pleasure organ.
Engaging more parts of our brain can enhance pleasure is based on the concept of cognitive engagement and the brain's reward system. Here’s a deeper look at how this works, particularly in the context of activities like appreciating wine:
Overall, the more we engage our brain—through learning, sensory input, and contextual understanding—the more we can enhance our experiences of pleasure. This engagement activates multiple brain regions, enriching the overall experience and increasing the intensity of pleasure.
The relationship between knowledge and pleasure is multifaceted, involving psychological, neurological, and experiential elements. This dynamic creates a virtuous circle where learning enhances enjoyment, and enjoyment fosters further curiosity and engagement. Here’s a deeper exploration, with examples:
1.?Cognitive Engagement and Deepened Experience
Engaging cognitively with an experience or object can deepen the pleasure derived from it. For example, in the context of wine tasting:
Wine Tasting: A novice wine drinker may simply enjoy the basic flavours of a wine. However, learning about grape varieties, terroir, winemaking techniques, and the history of a specific wine region can add layers of appreciation. Understanding the significance of terms like "tannin," "acidity," or "body" helps in recognizing and savouring these characteristics, making the experience richer and more pleasurable.
Music Appreciation: Similarly, a person with no musical background might enjoy a song simply for its melody. However, learning about musical theory, the artist's intent, or the historical context of a piece can transform a listening experience. Recognizing a song’s structure, key changes, and instrumental nuances enhances the listener's appreciation and emotional response.
2.?The Role of the Brain’s Reward System
The brain's reward system, primarily involving the neurotransmitter dopamine, plays a crucial role in the experience of pleasure. When we anticipate a rewarding experience, such as drinking a highly rated wine or attending a concert, dopamine levels increase. This anticipation heightens the pleasure of the actual experience.
3.?Contextual Enrichment and Emotional Resonance
Knowledge about the context or backstory of an object or experience can significantly enhance its emotional resonance and meaning.
Art Appreciation: Consider viewing a famous painting. Without context, one might simply appreciate the colours or composition. However, knowing the artist’s background, the historical period, and the techniques used can transform the viewing into a deeply moving experience. For instance, understanding the turmoil in Vincent van Gogh's life and the innovations in his painting style can intensify the emotional impact of his works.
Culinary Arts: Enjoying a dish at a restaurant can be elevated by knowing about the chef’s inspiration, the source of the ingredients, or the traditional cooking methods involved. This knowledge can enhance the sensory experience, making it more meaningful and memorable.
4.?The Joy of Learning and Curiosity
Learning itself can be a source of pleasure, often referred to as the "pleasure of the pursuit." The process of acquiring new knowledge or mastering a skill can be intrinsically rewarding.
·?????? Language Learning: As one progresses in learning a new language, the ability to understand and communicate opens up new cultural experiences and connections. The pleasure derived from this growing proficiency motivates continued learning.
·?????? Scientific Exploration: For scientists and enthusiasts, uncovering new findings or understanding complex theories can be deeply gratifying. The intellectual challenge and the satisfaction of discovery drive further curiosity and exploration.
5.?The Virtuous Circle of Knowledge and Enjoyment
The relationship between knowledge and pleasure creates a feedback loop or virtuous circle. As we learn more about a subject, our experiences become richer and more enjoyable, which in turn encourages further learning.
Wine Connoisseurship: A wine enthusiast, motivated by the enhanced enjoyment from deeper knowledge, may explore more about wine, attend tastings, visit vineyards, and read literature on oenology. This continual learning process not only broadens their understanding but also enriches each tasting experience.
Music and Arts: For someone interested in music, attending concerts, learning an instrument, or studying music theory can enhance their appreciation. Each new insight or skill acquired can lead to greater enjoyment and a deeper emotional connection with music.
1. Gastronomy and Food Appreciation
Chocolate Tasting: A casual chocolate eater might enjoy the basic taste of chocolate. However, a deeper understanding of cacao origins, processing methods, and tasting notes can transform the experience. Learning about different types of chocolate, such as single-origin or bean-to-bar and understanding terms like "conching" or "tempering" enhances the sensory pleasure of tasting high-quality chocolate.
Coffee Connoisseurship: For coffee lovers, learning about the origin of coffee beans, roasting profiles, and brewing techniques can significantly enhance the experience. Understanding the nuances of different roasts and brewing methods, such as pour-over, French press, or espresso, adds layers of appreciation. This knowledge can lead to experimenting with various beans and techniques, further deepening enjoyment.
2.?Sports and Physical Activities
Running: A beginner might enjoy running for fitness or stress relief. However, learning about proper techniques, training regimens, nutrition, and the biomechanics of running can improve performance and reduce injury risk. As runners become more knowledgeable, they might start participating in races or marathons, finding pleasure in achieving personal bests and setting new goals.
Rock Climbing: Initially, rock climbing might appeal to those seeking adventure or a physical challenge. As climbers learn more about techniques, equipment, and climbing routes, they can tackle more difficult climbs. The pleasure derived from mastering techniques and conquering challenging routes enhances the overall experience and encourages further exploration and skill development.
3.?Nature and Environmental Studies
Birdwatching: Someone might start birdwatching out of casual interest. However, as they learn to identify different species, understand migration patterns, and recognize bird calls, the activity becomes more engaging. The pursuit of spotting rare or elusive species can be thrilling, and learning about bird behaviour and conservation issues can deepen the appreciation of natural habitats.
Gardening: A person may start gardening for relaxation or to grow their own vegetables. As they learn about soil types, plant species, pest management, and gardening techniques, their enjoyment grows. The process of nurturing plants from seeds to harvest, understanding the intricacies of plant care, and the satisfaction of a thriving garden can be immensely pleasurable.
4.?Literature and Storytelling
Reading Literature: Initially, someone might read novels for entertainment. However, learning about literary techniques, historical contexts, and critical theories can deepen the understanding and enjoyment of literature. Recognizing themes, symbolism, and narrative structures enriches the reading experience and can lead to exploring more complex works and genres.
Film Appreciation: A moviegoer may enjoy films simply for their plots and characters. However, understanding film techniques, such as cinematography, editing, sound design, and directing, can greatly enhance the viewing experience. Learning about different genres, film history, and the work of notable directors can transform casual viewing into a deeper appreciation of cinema as an art form.
5.?Art and Visual Culture
Art Collecting: Collecting art can start as a hobby or an investment. However, as collectors learn about art history, different movements, and techniques, their appreciation deepens. Understanding the cultural significance, the artist's background, and the medium used can make owning a piece of art more meaningful. This knowledge often leads to a more discerning taste and a deeper connection to the works collected.
Photography: Someone might begin taking photos with a basic understanding of composition and lighting. As they delve into more advanced techniques, such as manual camera settings, post-processing, and different styles of photography (portrait, landscape, street, etc.), their skills and enjoyment grow. Mastering these techniques allows for creative expression and a deeper satisfaction with their work.
6.?Science and Technology
Astronomy: A person might enjoy stargazing and identifying constellations. Learning about celestial mechanics, the life cycles of stars, and the history of the universe adds depth to the experience. Using telescopes to observe planets, star clusters, and galaxies can become a profoundly awe-inspiring activity, fuelled by the pursuit of knowledge about the cosmos.
Computer Programming: Someone might start programming out of curiosity or necessity. As they learn different programming languages, algorithms, and software development methodologies, they can tackle more complex projects. The pleasure derived from solving challenging problems and creating functional programs can lead to continuous learning and exploration of new technologies.
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7.?History and Cultural Studies
Historical Reenactment: Participants might initially join historical reenactments for social or entertainment purposes. As they study the historical periods, learn about the clothing, customs, and significant events, the activity becomes more immersive and educational. This deeper engagement can increase the enjoyment and authenticity of the reenactments.
Travel and Cultural Immersion: Traveling to new places can be enjoyable on a surface level. However, learning about the history, language, customs, and cuisine of a destination can make the experience richer. Engaging with locals, participating in cultural traditions, and understanding the societal context enhances the travel experience, often leading to a deeper appreciation and desire for further exploration.
The acquisition of knowledge and skills not only enhances the immediate pleasure of the activity but also creates a continuous loop of curiosity and fulfilment. This virtuous circle encourages ongoing learning and deeper engagement, ultimately enriching the individual's experiences and broadening their horizons.
Engaging more parts of our brain—cognitively, emotionally, and sensorially—can significantly enhance our experiences of pleasure. The more we know about something, the richer and more nuanced our experiences become. This creates a cycle where enjoyment fosters curiosity and learning, leading to even greater pleasure and fulfilment. This virtuous circle underscores the deep connection between knowledge, pleasure, and personal growth.
Creating a Love of learning and Personal Mastery
Fostering a love of learning and a desire for personal mastery can be achieved by leveraging the natural pleasure derived from knowledge acquisition and skill development.
Strategies and approaches to cultivate this mindset:
1.?Intrinsic Motivation and Autonomy
Encouraging intrinsic motivation—where the individual finds the activity itself rewarding—is crucial. Autonomy, or the ability to choose and direct one’s own learning, plays a significant role in fostering intrinsic motivation.
Personal Interests: Allow individuals to explore subjects they are naturally curious about. When learners can pursue topics that fascinate them, they are more likely to engage deeply and enjoy the process.
Choice and Control: Providing choices in how, when, and what to learn can increase a sense of ownership and investment in the learning process. This autonomy can lead to more meaningful and sustained engagement.
2.?Creating Engaging and Relevant Learning Experiences
Learning experiences should be designed to be engaging and relevant to the learner's life and interests. This relevance helps to make learning feel worthwhile and connected to real-world applications.
Contextual Learning: Relating new knowledge to everyday life, current events, or personal experiences makes learning more meaningful. For example, teaching math through real-world problems or science through hands-on experiments can enhance engagement.
Narrative and Storytelling: Using stories or case studies can make learning more compelling. Narratives help contextualize information and make abstract concepts more concrete and relatable.
3.?Scaffolding and Progressive Challenges
Providing appropriate support and progressively challenging tasks helps maintain a balance between skill level and difficulty, a state often referred to as "flow."
Scaffolding: Offering initial support and gradually removing it as learners become more proficient helps them build confidence and competence. This can involve breaking down complex tasks into manageable steps.
Incremental Challenges: Setting progressively challenging goals ensures that learners are continuously growing and developing their skills. Achieving these goals provides a sense of accomplishment and motivates further effort.
4.?Feedback and Reflection
Constructive feedback and opportunities for reflection are essential for fostering a love of learning and a desire for mastery. Feedback helps learners understand their progress and areas for improvement.
Positive Reinforcement: Recognizing and celebrating achievements, both big and small, reinforces the pleasure of learning and encourages persistence.
Reflective Practice: Encouraging learners to reflect on what they’ve learned, how they’ve grown, and what they want to explore next helps solidify knowledge and skills. Reflection also helps in setting new goals and planning further learning.
5.?Creating a Supportive Learning Environment
A supportive environment where mistakes are seen as learning opportunities rather than failures fosters a growth mindset and a positive attitude toward learning.
Encouraging Risk-Taking: Promoting a culture where taking intellectual risks and exploring new ideas is valued helps learners feel safe to experiment and learn from mistakes.
Community and Collaboration: Learning alongside peers can provide additional motivation and a sense of belonging. Group projects, discussions, and collaborative problem-solving can enhance the learning experience and make it more enjoyable.
6.?Role Models and Mentorship
Exposure to role models and mentors who exemplify a love of learning and personal mastery can inspire learners. Mentors can provide guidance, share experiences, and model a positive attitude toward continuous learning.
Mentorship Programs: Pairing learners with mentors who share similar interests can provide personalized guidance and encouragement. Mentors can help learners navigate challenges and celebrate successes.
Showcasing Mastery: Highlighting stories of individuals who have achieved mastery in various fields can inspire learners. These stories can illustrate the journey of learning, the challenges faced, and the satisfaction of achieving expertise.
7.?Integrating Technology and Interactive Tools
Technology can be a powerful tool for enhancing learning experiences, providing access to vast resources, interactive tools, and personalized learning paths.
Educational Apps and Games: Interactive and gamified learning platforms can make learning fun and engaging. These tools often provide immediate feedback and allow learners to progress at their own pace.
Online Courses and Resources: Access to online courses, tutorials, and forums allows learners to explore subjects in-depth and connect with experts and peers worldwide.
8.?Emphasizing the Joy of Discovery and Lifelong Learning
Promoting the idea that learning is a lifelong journey filled with discovery can help instil a love of learning.
Curiosity and Exploration: Encouraging questions and curiosity fosters a mindset of exploration and wonder. Highlighting the idea that there is always more to learn can keep learners engaged and motivated.
Lifelong Learning Philosophy: Emphasizing that learning does not stop after formal education and that it’s valuable at any stage of life can inspire individuals to continuously seek new knowledge and skills.
By creating environments and opportunities that highlight the pleasure and value of learning, we can cultivate a love of learning and a desire for personal mastery. This approach not only enriches individual lives but also contributes to a more informed and engaged society.
Creating Joy, Growth and Personal Mastery
As teachers, parents, leaders, mentors, coaches etc, our role is to encourage life long learning and a desire to personal growth.
Cultivating a passion and fostering personal growth involves a conscious effort to explore interests, develop skills, and maintain a mindset open to learning and self-improvement. Here are some strategies to help you discover your passions and grow as a person:
1.?Exploration and Curiosity
Discovering Interests:
Broadening Horizons:
2.?Deepening Knowledge and Skills
Commitment to Mastery:
Reflective Practice:
3.?Building a Supportive Environment
Community and Networking:
Encouragement and Feedback:
4.?Cultivating a Growth Mindset
Embracing Challenges:
Continuous Learning:
5.?Finding Meaning and Purpose
Aligning with Values:
Contributing to Others:
6.?Balancing Passion with Well-being
Avoiding Burnout:
The strategies, you can cultivate a passion for learning and personal growth. This journey not only helps you discover and develop your interests but also leads to a more fulfilling and meaningful life.(ecosystem).
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