Skip to content

You cannot motivate the best people with money. Money is…

“You cannot motivate the best people with money. Money is just a way to keep score. The best people in any field are motivated by passion.” quote by Eric S. Raymond
Download Open image
“You cannot motivate the best people with money. Money is just a way to keep score. The best people in any field are motivated by passion.”

Eric S. Raymond

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Passion, not money, drives top performers; financial incentives are merely a superficial metric.

In simple terms: Passion fuels excellence more than pay.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate intrinsic motivation.

Themes

motivation leadership values performance

Mood

analytical inspirational

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • team building
  • startup culture
  • talent retention
  • project management

Key Concepts

psychology of work intrinsic vs extrinsic rewards

Questions to Reflect On

  • What non‑monetary incentives inspire your best work?
  • How do you recognize genuine passion?
A Different Perspective

Money can still be a practical necessity for basic needs.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Eric S. Raymond

Explore all 104 Eric S. Raymond quotes

More Fields quotes

Browse all 4,699 Fields quotes