Motivation Myths We Grew Up On (And Why They Still Haunt Us)

Motivation Myths We Grew Up On (And Why They Still Haunt Us)

From Thrive with Kira Sabin: A Positive Psychology Podcast by Kira Sabin

June 20, 2025 · 31 min

About this episode

Kira Sabin discusses the myths surrounding motivation and offers insights into overcoming barriers to change, particularly for women in midlife.

So many of us are frustrated by our lack of motivation or change. But here's the truth: You're not lazy. You're likely burned out, stuck in survival mode, or running on a nervous system that thinks "rest" is a threat. And willpower? It's not a moral issue—it's a limited resource, not a personality trait. In this episode, I'm breaking down: Why change feels so damn hard in midlife (even when you really want it) What your brain is doing when you try something new—and why it slams the brakes How perimenopause can make motivation and memory even harder The difference between extrinsic and intrinsic motivation (and why one actually works) Why shame, blame, and "just push through" doesn't create change—but self-compassion does This one's for every Gen X or elder millennial woman who's ever said, "I'll start Monday," only to spiral by Wednesday. Let's get into the science, the humor, and the tools that actually work when life feels stuck. ✨ Mentioned in this episode: Dr. Devon Price's Laziness Does Not Exist What's really happening in your brain during change Why I created Thrive Midlife (and yes, there are goats 🐐 and pizza farms 🍕) 💌 Questions or takeaways? DM me on Instagram…

People in this episode

Host: Kira Sabin

Topics covered

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Laziness Does Not Exist

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