The Profitable Photographer

The Profitable Photographer


285: Luci Dumas: The Psychology of Motivation

November 27, 2024

Hey, it's Luci Dumas, and today’s solo episode is a little different because I am sort of “journaling” about my experiences around the topic and looking for my own answers as I explore a topic that’s been on my mind lately: motivation. Specifically, how we can find it, sustain it, and even question whether we always need it. Is it okay to just be sometimes? To live a simpler life without constantly striving for the next big thing? It's a big question, and one that I’ve been pondering deeply.

As I thought about motivation, I kept coming back to Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs. You might remember it from a psychology class—it’s that pyramid of five human needs. It got me wondering: can understanding these levels help us reignite our drive when it feels like the spark is fading?


In this episode, I break down each level of Maslow’s pyramid:

• The basics like food and shelter.

• Our need for safety and security.

• The desire for connection and belonging.

• Building self-esteem and feeling accomplished.

• And finally, the quest for self-actualization—living our best, most fulfilling life.


I’ll share some thoughts on how these needs might be influencing your motivation—or lack of it. Plus, we’ll tackle that ever-present voice saying, “I should be doing more,” and decide if it’s always true. Spoiler: sometimes it’s okay to give yourself grace.

Some of the ideas on how to become or stay motivated I explore are suggestions to

Identify the Blockages

Set Goals Aligned with Your Needs

Reflect and Reassess

Leverage Higher Levels for Inspiration


Tune in for a mix of self-reflection, practical tips, and maybe even a spark to get you motivated—or at least, to help you feel okay with where you are right now.

Be sure to check out www.lucidumascoaching.com and feel free to book a 20 minute chat



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