Identity

The Spectrum of Motivation # Human behavior springs from a fascinating spectrum of motivations. At one end lie our intrinsic drives—actions we undertake simply because they resonate with our authentic desires and values. I listen to certain music because the melodies and rhythms genuinely move me. At the opposite end are extrinsic necessities—things we do because external circumstances require them. I complete certain work tasks not because they bring me joy, but because they represent necessary contributions to larger endeavors I’ve committed to.

“So, what do you do?” The innocuous cocktail party question lands like a philosophical challenge whenever I hear it. My internal response: Which identity would you prefer I present today? I could truthfully answer: Software Artisan Philosopher Amateur Blogger Author Investor Entrepreneur Human With Two Dogs Computer Person Techie Nerd Former Lyft Driver Autodidact Potato Farmer I could continue this list indefinitely, but you get the idea. The question assumes a singular professional identity—a neat categorization that rarely captures the multidimensional reality of contemporary lives.