Pop-psychology/business guide debunks the increasingly antiquated concept of financial remuneration as a motivational tooland offers a better idea. It's easy to sell the notion that work could be considerably more fulfilling, but Wired contributing editor Pink (A Whole New Mind: Moving from the Information Age to the Conceptual Age, 2005, etc.) makes a compelling argument that actually sounds plausible and implementable. Through a series of clinical studies, anecdotes and expert testimony, the author builds the case against extrinsic motivation, arguing that monetary rewards (or "carrots and sticks"), while effective for repetitive tasks, are actually detrimental in situations that call for more creative thinking or cognitive reasoning. Given that ingenuity and innovation underpin the 21st-century economy, Pink contends that the key to successand subsequent happiness and fulfillment in the workplaceis nurturing intrinsic motivation, which involves three key components: autonomy (having control over task, time, team and technique), mastery (being fully engaged in a task with a desire for constant improvement) and purpose (contributing to something larger than one's self). After convincingly demonstrating the importance of restructuring the workplace to emphasize these components, Pink provides a toolkit for managers, parents, teachers and individuals on how to tap into sources of intrinsic motivation. Though the latter section occasionally devolves into an overly enthusiastic new-age self-help tome, the book's main premise is significant. The author presents an integral addition to a growing body of literature that argues for a radical shift in how businesses operate in a world dominated by technology, and soon to be led by a generation that doesn't necessarily equate money with happiness. Important reading for frustrated but open-minded business leaders struggling to connect with stressed-out workers. Copyright Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.

New York Times best-selling author Pink (A Whole New Mind) here summarizes his extensive research into what motivates humans, particularly in work environments, outlining three main elements of motivation: autonomy, mastery, and purpose. His own steady, energized narration helps maintain listener interest in this oftentimes detailed, tedious material that goes beyond the work of many classic psychologists. Recommended for those interested in the psychology of human behavior and business leaders desiring new ideas to help enhance productivity and morale within their organization. [The Publishers Weekly best-selling Riverhead hc was recommended for "the sort of person who's jazzed by management seminars and team-building exercises," LJ 11/15/09.-Ed.]-Dale Farris, Groves, TX (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

According to Pink (A Whole New Mind), everything we think we know about what motivates us is wrong. He pits the latest scientific discoveries about the mind against the outmoded wisdom that claims people can only be motivated by the hope of gain and the fear of loss. Pink cites a dizzying number of studies revealing that "carrot and stick" can actually significantly reduce the ability of workers to produce creative solutions to problems. What motivates us once our basic survival needs are met is the ability to grow and develop, to realize our fullest potential. Case studies of Google's "20 percent time" (in which employees work on projects of their choosing one full day each week) and Best Buy's "Results Only Work Environment" (in which employees can work whenever and however they choose-as long as they meet specific goals) demonstrate growing endorsement for this approach. A series of appendixes include further reading and tips on applying this method to businesses, fitness and child-rearing. Drawing on research in psychology, economics and sociology, Pink's analysis-and new model-of motivation offers tremendous insight into our deepest nature. (Jan.) (c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved