Optimize for tomorrow—as in, literally, one day from now. Save to be a little richer tomorrow. Exercise to be a little fitter tomorrow. Read to be a… - James Clear

Excitement is a better motivator than discipline. The people who appear to have an exceptional work ethic or remarkable discipline are often those with a genuine curiosity or interest in that area. The person who smiles is more likely to keep working than the person gritting their teeth.

Until you work as hard as those you admire, don't explain away their success as luck

Some of the major drivers of human behavior…

• Safety: Does it provide peace of mind or reduce risk?
• Sex: Does it help them find love or make love?
• Convenience: Does it save time or energy?
• Social norms: Does it help them get along with others?
• Status: Does it improve their standing or help them gain approval?

…which all fit into the larger category of self-interest: How does it serve the person?