#Motivation

A wave of new research is upending common beliefs about motivation, revealing that pushing people harder with advice and pressure often backfires—while a gentler, evidence-based approach can dramatically improve follow-through. Published recently in Psychology Today by licensed clinical social worker and applied psychologists from universities in the US and UK, these findings challenge longstanding norms in Thai homes, schools, and workplaces, offering a fresh approach for Thai leaders, parents, and educators striving to inspire lasting personal and group change (Psychology Today).

For many Thais, the sight of early-morning runners at Lumpini Park or the popularity of group aerobics along the river may look effortless, almost innate. But new research affirms that enjoying exercise is far from an inborn trait—it’s a mindset, and it can be learned. According to fresh scientific findings reported by neuroscience experts at Florida International University and supported by recent global studies, our brains can be trained to crave physical activity, turning the once-dreaded workout into a source of pleasure and motivation (Women’s Health).

Scientists have uncovered that the brain’s dopamine system doesn’t simply predict if a reward is coming, but also precisely when to expect it—offering fresh insights into motivation, addiction, and even artificial intelligence. This new study, led by researchers at the University of Geneva and published on June 9, 2025, fundamentally changes our understanding of how the brain’s reward circuitry times and values pleasurable experiences, opening new avenues for practical applications in health and education (ScienceDaily).

Game theory, long associated with economics classrooms and high-stakes negotiations, is finding renewed relevance in the modern workplace, as recent psychology research highlights its potential to reshape how Thais can thrive in both local and global job markets. Insights featured in a new Forbes article by psychologist Mark Travers suggest that applying game theory principles thoughtfully—not rigidly—can help employees and leaders better navigate collaboration, motivation, and career advancement, even amidst complex social dynamics (Forbes).

A new self-help trend is sweeping through social media and bookshops alike, with motivational expert Mel Robbins advocating a simple mantra: “Let Them.” This phrase, the backbone of Robbins’s best-selling “Let Them Theory,” promises to grant emotional freedom and resilience by encouraging individuals to stop micromanaging the actions and opinions of others. Robbins argues that embracing these two words can help people break free from the cycle of overthinking, people-pleasing, and taking things personally — all while improving mental health in a world overloaded by stress and uncertainty (melrobbins.com, nytimes.com).

A recent study published in the journal Mental Health and Physical Activity has revealed that pairing step-tracking with mindfulness training through a mobile app not only encourages people to exercise more, but crucially increases their motivation to maintain this healthy habit. This innovative approach could offer much-needed support for Thai individuals seeking sustainable ways to be more physically active amid growing concerns about sedentary lifestyles and related health risks.

Physical inactivity affects a third of the global adult population, including many in Thailand, and is known to contribute to conditions such as depression and anxiety. Previous research shows that increasing physical activity improves mental health outcomes on par with standard psychotherapeutic and pharmaceutical treatments, yet long-term adherence remains a challenge due to flagging motivation World Health Organization.

In a promising development for anyone struggling to maintain regular physical activity, recent research highlights that combining exercise with another enjoyable activity can significantly enhance motivation to work out. According to a new report covered by Psychology Today, this innovative strategy could hold the key to overcoming common barriers to exercising — an issue especially relevant as Thai society faces rising rates of sedentary lifestyles and related health challenges.

The central finding of the study, as summarized in the Psychology Today article, is that when individuals merge workouts with other pleasurable experiences — such as listening to their favorite music or podcasts while jogging, or exercising with friends — their willingness to participate in physical activity increases markedly. This approach, sometimes referred to as “temptation bundling” in behavioral science literature, leverages the psychological principle of making a less favored task (exercise) more appealing by coupling it with an activity that is intrinsically enjoyable.

Adopting a consistent exercise routine remains a challenge for many people, but emerging research highlighted by leading health psychologists and fitness experts is offering fresh hope to those who struggle with motivation. Recent discourse at The New York Times Well Festival, backed by both global insights and new Thai research, points to three powerful secrets for transforming exercise from a chore into a joyful, life-enriching habit: embracing discomfort, prioritizing momentum, and finding community (nytimes.com).

New research is reinvigorating an age-old idea: exercising with a partner can significantly boost motivation, workout consistency, and long-term health outcomes. Recent findings show gym attendance increases by 35% when people bring a friend, with participants tending to exercise longer and at higher intensities compared to those who go it alone (PhillyVoice). This growing body of evidence holds special relevance for Thai society, where communal activity is ingrained in daily life but modern urbanisation is nudging lifestyles towards individualism.

A new wave of research spotlights the impact of simple but powerful words on children’s motivation, with psychologists and educators emphasizing that a few well-chosen phrases can cultivate resilience, self-esteem, and positive behavior in young minds. The concept recently drew wide attention following a widely shared article in The Times of India titled “10 golden phrases that can motivate children instantly,” sparking discussion across parenting communities in Thailand and beyond.

A new study by researchers at the University of Bath has found that two surprisingly simple—and, crucially, cost-free—habits can substantially increase exercise motivation and activity levels: step-monitoring and mindfulness practice. The findings, published and reported by Woman & Home, offer valuable, evidence-based tips for anyone in Thailand struggling to maintain regular physical activity, especially as health authorities continue to stress the importance of exercise in fending off diseases and supporting mental wellbeing.