“in flow, the relationship between what a person had to do and what he could do was perfect. The challenge wasn't too easy.Nor was it too difficult. It was a notch or two beyond his current abilities, which stretched the body and mind in a way that made the effort itselfthe most delicious reward. That balance produced a degree of focus and satisfaction that easily surpassed other, more quotidian,experiences. In flow, people lived so deeply in the moment, and felt so utterly in control, that their sense of time, place, and even self meltedaway. They were autonomous, of course. But more than that, they were engaged.”

“One source of frustration in the workplace is the frequent mismatch between what people must do and whatpeople can do. When what they must do exceeds their capabilities, the result is anxiety. When what they must do falls short of their capabilities,the result is boredom. But when thematch is just right, the results can be glorious. This is the essence of flow.”

“While complying can be an effective strategyfor physical survival, it's a lousy one for personal fulfillment. Living a satisfying life requires more than simply meeting the demands of those incontrol. Yet in our offices and our classrooms we have way too much compliance and way too little engagement. The former might get youthrough the day, but only the latter will get you through the night.”

“Control leads to compliance; autonomy leads to engagement.”

“Lawyers often face intense demands but have relatively little “decision latitude.” Behavioral scientists use this term to describe the choices, and perceived choices, a person has. In a sense, it’s another way of describing autonomy—and lawyers are glum and cranky because they don’t have much of it.”

“Dan Ariely, author of Predictably Irrational, a book that offers an entertaining and engaging overview of behavioral economics.”

“The monkeys solved the puzzle simply because they found it gratifying to solve puzzles. They enjoyed it. The joy of the task was its own reward.”