Book Review of Get It Done: Surprising Lessons from the Science of Motivation by Ayelet Fishbach
Hook:
“Motivation isn’t a fire you simply keep stoking—it’s a strategic game, and the rules are often counterintuitive.” In Get It Done, psychologist Ayelet Fishbach invites readers to leverage the science of motivation in surprisingly practical and adaptable ways. This book isn’t just about setting goals; it’s about hacking the motivation journey to make achievements more reachable, even enjoyable.
Overview:
Drawing from motivation science and behavioral psychology, Get It Done aims to help readers not only set meaningful goals but to sustain the momentum needed to achieve them. Fishbach structures the book around four key principles: selecting the right goals, maintaining progress, managing competing goals, and harnessing social support. Through personal anecdotes and a wide array of research findings, Fishbach presents strategies that readers can apply to both personal and professional ambitions.
Themes & Ideas:
A central theme is that motivation doesn’t rely solely on willpower; rather, it’s shaped by our environment and the structure of our goals. Fishbach debunks the idea that motivation is about “trying harder,” replacing it with strategies that include tweaking goal framing, using “approach” rather than “avoidance” language, and measuring progress in actionable ways. Particularly noteworthy is Fishbach’s insight into “the middle problem,” where motivation often flags halfway through, and her advice on using small rewards or social accountability to overcome these dips. She also addresses how intrinsic motivation (finding joy or meaning in the process) can be cultivated to make sustained effort feel less burdensome.
Research & Evidence:
Fishbach’s expertise in behavioral science is evident in her careful curation of studies and theories, from the classic experiments of B.F. Skinner to contemporary findings in behavioral economics. This grounding in research adds credibility and depth, making her suggestions seem both tested and adaptable. Her focus on measurable, actionable targets is particularly well-supported by research into goal-setting theory and the psychology of incentives, making her advice practical for those seeking tangible results.
Writing Style:
The writing style is accessible yet grounded in academic insight, with a conversational tone that balances Fishbach’s scholarly background with relatability. Her personal stories—from her unique upbringing on a kibbutz to her transition into American academia—add warmth and context to her expertise. Fishbach uses humor and relatable examples to prevent the book from feeling too theoretical, creating a reading experience that feels both enjoyable and motivational.
Positive Aspects:
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its actionable nature. Fishbach doesn’t just talk about motivation—she provides specific strategies, backed by psychological research, that readers can apply immediately. The structure of each chapter also allows for easy reference; readers can revisit particular sections based on their current motivational challenges. Furthermore, Fishbach’s empathy shines through, particularly in her discussion of goal juggling and her nuanced take on how people struggle with competing ambitions.
Critiques:
Some readers may find that Get It Done glosses over certain structural challenges, such as systemic barriers to goal attainment, which might affect a reader’s motivation in ways beyond individual control. While the book excels at providing strategies for personal agency, it could benefit from acknowledging external factors that often influence goal achievement. Additionally, while the personal anecdotes are effective, at times they could feel a bit repetitive in making the same point.
Personal Impact Statement:
Reading Get It Done encourages a fresh perspective on goal pursuit, especially in Fishbach’s emphasis on “approach” over “avoidance” goals. It reshapes motivation from something amorphous into a strategic framework that feels empowering. Personally, the book’s guidance on reframing goals—focusing on what we want to achieve instead of what we’re avoiding—was especially insightful.
Recommendation:
I’d highly recommend Get It Done to anyone interested in personal development, particularly those who feel stalled or uninspired in their goal pursuits. Students, professionals, and those interested in psychology will find it particularly useful. It’s also a great fit for readers who appreciate science-backed strategies without the weight of jargon-heavy academic writing.
Rating:
🌟🌟🌟🌟 (4/5)
Get It Done delivers effective, research-based motivation strategies in an engaging and accessible package. It loses a star only for its limited acknowledgment of external motivational barriers but remains a standout resource for anyone looking to navigate their goals with science on their side.
