Human motivation is a complex interplay of three core brain systems: the approach system, the avoidance system, and the regulatory system. The approach system, centred in the brain’s reward circuitry, drives us toward things we want or need. Dopamine, a neurotransmitter, plays a significant role in this system, pushing us to seek rewards and learn from them.
Conversely, the avoidance system, rooted in the brain’s threat detection circuitry, pushes us away from potential harm. This system is primarily driven by another neurotransmitter, serotonin, which helps regulate mood, appetite, and sleep, among other things.
Lastly, the regulatory system, primarily involving the prefrontal cortex, helps balance the approach and avoidance systems. It enables us to make decisions, plan for the future, and control our impulses.
These three systems work in harmony to influence our behaviour and motivation. Understanding them can help us better manage our motivation, enhance our productivity, and improve our well-being. It’s important to note that each person’s balance of these systems is unique, influencing individual differences in motivation and behaviour.
Furthermore, external factors like stress can disrupt this balance, affecting motivation. Chronic stress can impair the regulatory system, making it harder to control impulses and make decisions. Understanding these dynamics can guide interventions to improve motivation and well-being.
Go to source article: https://www.lesswrong.com/posts/hN2aRnu798yas5b2k/a-crash-course-in-the-neuroscience-of-human-motivation