Fire in the Belly

Learn how the hidden power of near misses and anticipatory energy can ignite your drive and help you achieve your most meaningful goals, from Stanford-trained expert and professor at Temple University, Dr. Monica Wadhwa.

What keeps us motivated? What makes us push harder, strive longer, and refuse to give up—especially when we’re close to losing? Why do some people persist through setbacks, seize opportunities, and continue growing, while others lose momentum along the way?

These are questions that motivational expert Dr. Monica Wadhwa has spent her career looking at answers for. Drawing on decades of her own original research and other studies in psychology, neuroscience, and human behavior, Fire in the Belly reveals a surprising truth: motivation isn’t a fixed trait that some people have and others don’t. It’s a source of energy that can be activated, directed, and sustained.

Through fascinating studies, personal stories, and practical insights, Dr. Wadhwa uncovers the hidden forces that drive achievement. Readers will discover:

- Why almost winning can motivate you more than winning.
- Why small rewards often outperform large ones.
- Why curiosity is a stronger performance tool than confidence.
- Why unpredictability can make habits stick.
- Why fear of missing out can be more motivating than the promise of success.
- Why too much praise can actually undermine performance.

And more!

Filled with actionable strategies for leaders, educators, parents, and professionals, Fire in the Belly is a fresh and practical guide to understanding the science of motivation. By learning how motivation really works, readers will gain the tools to pursue ambitious goals, recover from disappointment, and unlock higher levels of performance and fulfillment in every area of life.