Get It Done: Surprising Lessons from the Science of Motivation by Ayelet Fishbach Summary

1. Frame goals with excitement, not obligation, to boost intrinsic motivation.
2. Attack the "middle problem" by celebrating small wins to maintain momentum.
3. Use temptation bundling to pair unpleasant tasks with immediate rewards.
4. Prioritize identity-expressive goals over compromises when values conflict.
5. Monitor progress numerically; measurable targets create clearer motivation pathways.
6. Leverage social accountability through public commitments and shared goals.
7. Design "goal systems" that link daily actions to larger purposes.
8. Reframe setbacks as necessary detours rather than catastrophic failures.
9. Use implementation intentions: plan specific times and methods for tasks.
10. Balance intrinsic satisfaction with strategic extrinsic rewards for complex goals.
11. Practice strategic ignorance toward distractions that derail priority objectives.
12. Create "fresh start" moments through temporal landmarks to renew focus.

About the Author

Ayelet Fishbach, author of Get It Done: Surprising Lessons from the Science of Motivation, is an award-winning behavioral scientist and globally recognized expert in human motivation.

A professor of behavioral science and marketing at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, Fishbach leverages her decades of research on decision-making and goal achievement to craft this evidence-based guide to personal and professional growth. Her work, published in journals like Nature and Psychological Review, has earned accolades including the Society of Experimental Social Psychology’s Career Trajectory Award and the Fulbright Educational Foundation Award.

Fishbach’s insights have been featured in The New York Times, Financial Times, and NPR, and she has appeared on podcasts such as Freakonomics Radio and Guy Kawasaki’s Remarkable People.

As past president of the Society for the Science of Motivation, she translates cutting-edge research into actionable strategies for overcoming procrastination and sustaining focus. Get It Done distills her pioneering framework into tools applicable to career, health, and relationships. The book has been widely cited in academic circles and endorsed by leaders in psychology and business.

FAQs About This Book

What is Get It Done: Surprising Lessons from the Science of Motivation about?

Get It Done by Ayelet Fishbach is a research-backed guide to achieving goals by harnessing motivation science. It offers strategies for selecting meaningful objectives, sustaining focus, balancing competing priorities, and leveraging social support. The book emphasizes intrinsic motivation, progress tracking, and reframing tasks to overcome procrastination.

Who should read Get It Done?

Professionals, students, and anyone seeking to improve productivity or navigate complex goals will benefit. Its blend of psychological insights and actionable advice makes it ideal for those interested in behavior change, leadership, or personal development. Fishbach’s academic rigor and accessible style cater to both casual readers and experts.

Is Get It Done worth reading?

Yes. Fishbach, a leading motivation researcher, distills decades of studies into practical frameworks. The book stands out for its evidence-based approach to overcoming procrastination, optimizing incentives, and maintaining momentum. Readers praise its balance of depth and readability, with real-world examples and actionable steps.

What is the four-step process for achieving goals in Get It Done?

Fishbach’s framework includes:

• Choosing goals (prioritizing intrinsic, exciting objectives).
• Sustaining motivation (via progress tracking and feedback).
• Managing multiple goals (balancing competing demands).
• Engaging social support (using accountability and shared purpose)

How does Get It Done define intrinsic motivation?

Intrinsic motivation involves pursuing activities as ends in themselves, driven by enjoyment or fulfillment rather than external rewards. Fishbach argues it’s critical for long-term success and suggests strategies like temptation bundling and focusing on immediate benefits to strengthen it.

What are key quotes from Get It Done?

• “Progress increases motivation”: Small wins build momentum.
• “Modify your behavior by modifying your situation”: Environment shapes actions.
• “Getting anywhere requires pulling”: Effort is non-negotiable for meaningful goals

How does Get It Done address the “middle problem” in goal pursuit?

The “middle problem” refers to motivation dips during lengthy tasks. Fishbach recommends recommitting to the goal’s purpose, breaking tasks into subgoals, and celebrating incremental progress to regain focus.

Can Get It Done help with career development?

Yes. It offers tools for setting career milestones, overcoming setbacks, and aligning daily tasks with long-term aspirations. Tips on leveraging mentors and reframing challenges as growth opportunities are particularly applicable.

How does Get It Done compare to Atomic Habits?

While both focus on behavior change, Get It Done emphasizes motivation science and goal-setting frameworks, whereas Atomic Habits targets habit formation. Fishbach’s approach is more academic, while Clear’s is anecdotal. They complement each other for holistic growth.

What criticisms exist about Get It Done?

Some note its academic tone may overwhelm casual readers. Others suggest its social-motivation strategies require existing support networks. However, most praise its actionable insights and evidence-based methods.

How does Get It Done recommend using social support?

Fishbach advises sharing goals to create accountability, partnering with like-minded peers, and framing group objectives around shared identity. Social rewards (e.g., recognition) amplify commitment.

What makes Get It Done relevant in 2025?

Its focus on adaptability, remote work challenges, and maintaining motivation amid distractions aligns with modern productivity struggles. Updated examples and timeless principles ensure ongoing relevance.