In this episode of Management Matters, Jane Magness sits down with Dr. Melissa Hughes to explore what truly motivates people at work and why “just right” is the secret.
Drawing on neuroscience and the Goldilocks Principle, Melissa explains why employees disengage when work is too easy or too overwhelming and how leaders can calibrate challenges to keep teams in the optimal zone of growth.
Together, they unpack the science behind intrinsic motivation, psychological safety, and how small shifts in feedback, autonomy, and expectations can unlock higher engagement and performance.
If you’ve ever wondered why some people lean in while others quietly pull back, this conversation offers practical insight into creating work that is not too much, not too little—but just right.
Connect with Melissa
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