8 Best Nootropics For Motivation In 2024

Updated September 3, 2024 by | Reviewed by William Gallagher, MNeuroSci
(Estimated reading time: 9 minutes)

In this article, I'll examine the 8 best nootropics for motivation. I'll also cover the potential risks and side effects you may run into and the benefits you can expect.

Are you looking for an edge in your career or studies? Perhaps you're struggling to find the motivation to keep going each day?

If you're like most people, you probably turn to coffee or energy drinks for a quick pick-me-up. But these come with their own set of problems (like the inevitable crash).

Nootropics are a class of substances that offer the benefits of caffeine without the drawbacks. They're sometimes called "smart drugs" because they can improve cognitive function, motivation, and even creativity.

Let's take a look at the 8 best nootropics for motivation and see how they can help you reach your goals.

The best nootropics for motivation, according to scientific evidence, are:

  • Vyvamind
  • Modafinil
  • Armodafinil
  • Piracetam
  • Adrafinil
  • Caffeine + L-theanine
  • L-tyrosine
  • Aniracetam

1. Vyvamind

Vyvamind is a nootropic blend. It contains 6 different ingredients that are all backed by science.

Vyvamind was created by neuroscientists and is designed to improve focus, motivation, and productivity.

The ingredients in Vyvamind include:

  • Vitamin B6 (as Pyridoxine HCl) 2.5mg 147%
  • Vitamin B12 (as Methylcobalamin) 50mcg 2083%
  • L-Tyrosine (4-hydroxyphenylalanine) 300 mg
  • Citicoline (cytidine diphosphate-choline (CDP-Choline)) (cytidine 5’-diphosphocholine) 200 mg
  • L-Theanine (L-y-glutamylethylamide) 150 mg
  • Caffeine Anhydrous (1,3,7-trimethylxanthine) 75 mg

The company that makes Vyvamind claims that it's the "most complete focus supplement on the market."

Vyvamind is a non-GMO, vegan-friendly, and FDA-registered product. It's also third-party tested for safety and purity.

If you're looking for an all-natural nootropic that can improve motivation, Vyvamind is worth considering.

Vyvamind Pros:

  • All-natural and available worldwide
  • No prescription needed
  • Backed by science
  • Helps boost motivation and focus

Vyvamind Cons:

  • Not as well-known as other nootropics

Vyvamind in Summary:

Vyvamind is a promising nootropic containing 6 potent ingredients that will help boost your motivation. All ingredients are backed by science, and it's vegan-friendly and all-natural.

2. Modafinil

Modafinil is a eugeroic drug (a wakefulness-promoting agent). It treats excessive sleepiness caused by narcolepsy, shift work sleep disorder, and obstructive sleep apnea. Modafinil is also used off-label as a cognitive enhancer. It improves motivation, memory, reaction time, and task flexibility.

A 2007 study found that modafinil improved motivational impairments in people with schizophrenia.[1]

Another study from 2017 showed that modafinil can help healthy non-sleep-deprived individuals improve their performance on cognitive tests, hence why off-label use of modafinil as a cognitive enhancer is becoming increasingly popular.

Modafinil is a schedule IV controlled substance in the US. This means it has a low potential for abuse and dependence.

Modafinil Pros:

  • Improves motivation in people
  • A wakefulness-promoting agent
  • Off-label use as a cognitive enhancer is gaining popularity
  • Low potential for abuse and dependence

Modafinil Cons:

  • You need a prescription in most countries

Modafinil in Summary:

Modafinil is a wakefulness-promoting agent that's also used off-label as a cognitive enhancer. It can improve motivation in people with schizophrenia and healthy individuals alike. However, you need a prescription to get it in most countries.

3. Armodafinil

Armodafinil is the R-enantiomer of modafinil. Armodafinil is more potent than modafinil and has a longer half-life. This means it lasts longer in your system.

A 2011 study showed that armodafinil can improve task motivation and vigilance among U.S. Naval air traffic controllers 8 to 11 hours post-dose.[2]

Like modafinil, off-label use of armodafinil as a cognitive enhancer is also gaining popularity. Students and professionals use it to help them focus, get work done, and increase motivation.

Armodafinil Pros:

  • Improves task motivation and vigilance
  • Longer half-life than modafinil
  • Off-label use as a cognitive enhancer is gaining popularity

Armodafinil Cons:

  • You need a prescription in most countries

Armodafinil in Summary:

Armodafinil is the R-enantiomer of modafinil. It's more potent than modafinil and has a longer half-life. Armodafinil can improve task motivation and vigilance. Off-label use of armodafinil as a cognitive enhancer is also gaining popularity.

4. Piracetam

Piracetam is a nootropic compound that has been shown to improve cognitive function in various studies.[3] One particular area where piracetam may be helpful is motivation.

A key component of motivation is dopaminergic signaling, and piracetam has been shown to increase dopamine levels in the brain.[4] Additionally, piracetam has been shown to be more potent when combined with choline to boost cognition and motivation.[5]

Off-label, piracetam is sometimes used as a cognitive enhancer by students, and there is some evidence to support its use for this purpose. However, more research is needed before piracetam can be recommended as a treatment for motivation or any other condition.

Piracetam Pros:

  • Shown to improve cognitive function in various studies
  • Helps with motivation by increasing dopamine levels
  • Can be more potent when combined with choline

Piracetam Cons:

  • More research is needed to confirm its efficacy in humans

Piracetam in Summary:

Piracetam is a nootropic compound that has been shown to improve cognitive function in various studies. Students sometimes use Piracetam as a cognitive enhancer, and there is some evidence to support its use for this purpose.

5. Adrafinil

Adrafinil is a prodrug of modafinil, meaning it's converted into modafinil in the body. Adrafinil was originally developed as a treatment for narcolepsy, but it's now used off-label as a cognitive enhancer.

Adrafinil has similar effects to modafinil and armodafinil. It increases dopamine levels in the brain and has been shown to improve task motivation and vigilance.[6]

Off-label adrafinil is sometimes used by students and professionals to help them focus, increase motivation, and get work done. However, because adrafinil is metabolized into modafinil in the body, it can cause similar side effects as modafinil.

Adrafinil Pros:

  • Converts into modafinil in the body
  • Increases dopamine levels in the brain
  • Shown to improve task motivation and vigilance

Adrafinil Cons:

  • Not as potent as modafinil

Adrafinil in Summary:

Adrafinil is a prodrug of modafinil. It's not as potent as modafinil, but it can still increase dopamine levels in the brain and improve task motivation and vigilance.

6. Caffeine + L-theanine

Caffeine is the most widely consumed psychoactive substance globally and is also one of the most effective cognitive enhancers. Caffeine increases alertness, wakefulness, and motivation.[7]

L-theanine is an amino acid found in tea that has been shown to promote relaxation and reduce stress without causing drowsiness.[8]

When combined, or stacked, caffeine and L-theanine have synergistic effects, with the L-theanine offsetting some of the negative side-effects of caffeine.

One study showed that L-theanine and caffeine in combination are beneficial for improving motivation and performance on cognitively demanding tasks.[9]

Caffeine + L-theanine Pros:

  • Work together to improve motivation and performance
  • Can offset some of the negative side-effects of caffeine
  • All-natural stack

Caffeine + L-theanine Cons:

  • The Caffeine to L-theanine ratio can be important – too much caffeine can offset the benefits of L-theanine

Caffeine + L-theanine in Summary:

The caffeine + L-theanine stack is an all-natural nootropic combo that has been shown to improve motivation and performance on cognitively demanding tasks. It's the perfect stack for students or anyone looking to get an edge on their mental performance.

7. L-tyrosine

L-tyrosine is a naturally-occurring amino acid that is often taken as a supplement to boost cognitive performance. The body uses L-tyrosine to produce noradrenaline and dopamine, two neurotransmitters that play an important role in motivation and alertness.

Noradrenaline is involved in the fight-or-flight response, while dopamine is associated with reward and pleasure. Supplementing with L-tyrosine has been shown to increase levels of noradrenaline and dopamine in the brain, which can improve motivation and focus.[10]

Additionally, L-tyrosine has been shown to enhance memory and cognitive performance under stressful conditions.[11] Therefore, L-tyrosine may be an effective supplement for those seeking to boost their motivation and cognitive performance.

L-tyrosine Pros:

  • Shown to increase levels of noradrenaline and dopamine
  • Can improve motivation and focus
  • Enhances memory and cognitive performance under stressful conditions

L-tyrosine Cons:

  • Not effective for everyone

L-tyrosine in Summary:

L-tyrosine is a naturally-occurring amino acid that has been shown to increase levels of noradrenaline and dopamine in the brain. This can lead to improved motivation and focus.

8. Aniracetam

Aniracetam is a cognitive enhancer that has shown promise in improving motivation. It is thought to work by modulating specific neurotransmitter systems in the brain.

Studies have shown that Aniracetam increases cortical dopamine and serotonin levels via cholinergic and glutamatergic receptors.[12].

Additionally, Aniracetam has been shown to increase levels of the BDNF protein in the brain.[13] BDNF stands for brain-derived neurotrophic factor and is essential for neuronal growth, survival, and synaptic plasticity.

Aniracetam is typically well-tolerated, but side effects can include headaches, anxiety, and dizziness. It's important to start with a low dose and increase gradually as needed.

If you're struggling to find motivation, Aniracetam may be worth trying.

Aniracetam Pros:

  • Effective at improving motivation
  • Improves cognitive function
  • Boosts BDNF levels

Aniracetam Cons:

  • Hard to find online and not sold in stores

Aniracetam in Summary:

Aniracetam is an effective nootropic for motivation. It's also well-tolerated and shown to improve cognitive function. It boosts BDNF levels, making it ideal for people who want to improve their overall brain health, not just motivation.

What Are the Best Nootropics for Motivation?

best nootropics for motivation

The best nootropics for motivation are:

  1. Vyvamind
  2. Modafinil
  3. Armodafinil
  4. Piracetam
  5. Adrafinil
  6. Caffeine + L-theanine
  7. L-tyrosine
  8. Aniracetam

I have chosen these nootropics for motivation based on their efficacy, safety, and potential side-effects. The list contains both natural and synthetic nootropics, as well as a nootropic stack.

While all of these nootropics can be effective for improving motivation, it's important to remember that everyone is different and what works for one person may not work for another.

Therefore, it's important to experiment with different nootropics and combinations of nootropics to find what works best for you.

How to Choose the Right Nootropic Supplement for Motivation?

When you want to choose a nootropic supplement for motivation, it is important to check the following:

  • The supplement should contain ingredients that are clinically proven to improve motivation
  • The supplement should be free from any harmful side-effects
  • The dosage of each ingredient should be clearly stated
  • The supplement should come from a reputable source

You may also want to consider the following factors:

  • Your personal goals
  • Your current state of health
  • Any potential allergies
  • Any medications you are currently taking

If you're looking for a place to start, I recommend that you take a closer look at Vyvamind. It contains a powerful combination of nootropics that have been shown to improve motivation and cognitive performance.

Vyvamind is also free from any harmful side-effects and comes from a reputable source.

What Are the Benefits of Nootropics for Motivation?

The benefits of nootropics for motivation include:

  • Improved focus
  • Increased energy levels
  • Enhanced memory and recall
  • Reduced anxiety and stress
  • Improved mood

When you take nootropic blends like Vyvamind you'll also experience:

  • Better sleep
  • Reduced brain fog
  • Increased motivation

These benefits are just the tip of the iceberg. Nootropics can also improve your cognitive performance, increase your IQ, and protect your brain from age-related cognitive decline.

What Are the Side Effects of Nootropics for Motivation?

The side effects of nootropics for motivation are usually mild and temporary. The most common side effects include:

  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Anxiety
  • Insomnia

If you experience any of these side effects, simply reduce the dosage or stop taking the supplement altogether.

Do Nootropics Really Work for Motivation?

Yes, nootropics really do work for motivation. However, it's important to remember that they will not work for everyone.

Nootropics are most effective when combined with healthy lifestyle choices such as a nutritious diet, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep.

They are definitely worth trying if you're looking for an edge to help you achieve your goals and boost your motivation. Just remember to do your research and choose a reputable supplement.

Final Thoughts

So do I think that nootropics answer all your motivation problems? Yes and no.

They definitely help, but they are not a magic pill.

Nootropics can give you the mental edge to stay focused and motivated throughout the day. However, they will not work if you're not taking care of your physical health.

Think of nootropics as a tool in your toolbox. Used correctly, they can be a powerful ally in your quest to achieve your goals.

I hope you found this article helpful. If you have any questions or comments about noots for motivation, please feel free to reach out to me in private.

References
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  2. Phillips, Jeffrey B et al. “A single dose of armodafinil significantly promotes vigilance 11 hours post-dose.” Military medicine vol. 176,7 (2011): 833-9. doi:10.7205/milmed-d-10-00250 ↑
  3. Scheuer, K et al. “Piracetam improves cognitive performance by restoring neurochemical deficits of the aged rat brain.” Pharmacopsychiatry vol. 32 Suppl 1 (1999): 10-6. doi:10.1055/s-2007-979231 ↑
  4. Rägo, L K et al. “Effects of piracetam on the central dopaminergic transmission.” Naunyn-Schmiedeberg's archives of pharmacology vol. 318,1 (1981): 36-7. doi:10.1007/BF00503309 ↑
  5. Bartus, R T et al. “Profound effects of combining choline and piracetam on memory enhancement and cholinergic function in aged rats.” Neurobiology of aging vol. 2,2 (1981): 105-11. doi:10.1016/0197-4580(81)90007-5 ↑
  6. Siwak, C T et al. “Adrafinil: effects on behavior and cognition in aged canines.” Progress in neuro-psychopharmacology & biological psychiatry vol. 24,5 (2000): 709-26. doi:10.1016/s0278-5846(00)00103-2 ↑
  7. Cappelletti, Simone et al. “Caffeine: cognitive and physical performance enhancer or psychoactive drug?.” Current neuropharmacology vol. 13,1 (2015): 71-88. doi:10.2174/1570159X13666141210215655 ↑
  8. Hidese, Shinsuke et al. “Effects of L-Theanine Administration on Stress-Related Symptoms and Cognitive Functions in Healthy Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial.” Nutrients vol. 11,10 2362. 3 Oct. 2019, doi:10.3390/nu11102362 ↑
  9. Owen, Gail N et al. “The combined effects of L-theanine and caffeine on cognitive performance and mood.” Nutritional neuroscience vol. 11,4 (2008): 193-8. doi:10.1179/147683008X301513 ↑
  10. Bloemendaal, Mirjam et al. “Neuro-Cognitive Effects of Acute Tyrosine Administration on Reactive and Proactive Response Inhibition in Healthy Older Adults.” eNeuro vol. 5,2 ENEURO.0035-17.2018. 30 Apr. 2018, doi:10.1523/ENEURO.0035-17.2018 ↑
  11. Jongkees, Bryant J et al. “Effect of tyrosine supplementation on clinical and healthy populations under stress or cognitive demands--A review.” Journal of psychiatric research vol. 70 (2015): 50-7. doi:10.1016/j.jpsychires.2015.08.014 ↑
  12. Shirane, M, and K Nakamura. “Aniracetam enhances cortical dopamine and serotonin release via cholinergic and glutamatergic mechanisms in SHRSP.” Brain research vol. 916,1-2 (2001): 211-21. doi:10.1016/s0006-8993(01)02939-0 ↑
  13. Arai, A C, and M Kessler. “Pharmacology of ampakine modulators: from AMPA receptors to synapses and behavior.” Current drug targets vol. 8,5 (2007): 583-602. doi:10.2174/138945007780618490 ↑