Junger’s observation of soldiers aligns with decades of research conducted on the fundamental elements that drive human motivation, satisfaction, and fulfillment. This body of work has coalesced into self-determination theory, or SDT for short. SDT demonstrates that humans thrive when three basic needs are met: Autonomy, or the ability to have at least some control over how we spend our time and energy. Competence, or a path toward tangible improvement in our chosen pursuits. Relatedness, or a sense of connection and belonging.
