In this Huberman Lab Essentials episode, I explain the biological mechanism behind motivation and drive, as well as discuss practical tools for overcoming procrastination.

I discuss the key role dopamine plays in driving cravings and motivating action. I explain how dopamine regulates the balance between pleasure and pain, and what happens when this system becomes dysregulated, leading to addiction. I discuss the role of molecules like serotonin, which help enhance the enjoyment of the present, and explain how to balance the drive for more while staying focused in the present. I also discuss the causes of procrastination and describe strategies to boost dopamine levels through behavioral approaches or supplements.

Episode show notes: go.hubermanlab.com/scK73JK

Huberman Lab Essentials are short episodes focused on essential science and protocol takeaways from past full-length Huberman Lab episodes. Watch or listen to the full-length episode:    • How to Increase Motivation & Drive  

Watch more Huberman Lab Essentials episodes:    • Huberman Lab Essentials  

Timestamps
00:00:00 Huberman Lab Essentials; Motivation
00:01:57 Dopamine & Brain
00:04:08 Anticipation, Craving & Dopamine
00:05:37 Food, Drugs & Dopamine Release
00:09:08 Addiction, Pleasure & Pain Balance
00:13:03 Dopamine, Pain, Yearning
00:14:56 “Here and Now” Molecules, Serotonin, Endocannabinoids, Tool: Mindfulness
00:18:30 Procrastination; Tool: Extend Dopamine, Offset Pain
00:22:03 Dopamine & Motivation; Increasing Dopamine, Phenethylamine (PEA)
00:25:30 Dopamine Schedule, Subjectivity
00:28:31 Gambling, Intermittent Reinforcement, Tool: Blunting Rewards
00:33:23 Recap & Key Takeaway

Disclaimer & Disclosures: www.hubermanlab.com/disclaimer