DiscoverWellness Big Sis: The Pod79:: The female brain on motivation & discipline (how estrogen influences our brain throughout the menstrual cycle!)
79:: The female brain on motivation & discipline (how estrogen influences our brain throughout the menstrual cycle!)

79:: The female brain on motivation & discipline (how estrogen influences our brain throughout the menstrual cycle!)

Update: 2025-10-13
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Ever wondered why some days you’re overflowing with motivation, and others it feels like every task takes extra effort? In this episode, we’re breaking down the science behind motivation vs. discipline — and how your hormones play a major role in both.

Learn how dopamine fuels your drive, how estrogen amplifies motivation and focus, and why your prefrontal cortex steps in when motivation dips. We’ll explore what’s really happening in your brain throughout each phase of your menstrual cycle, and how to work with your biology — not against it — to stay consistent, productive, and balanced.

Whether you’re building habits, trying to stay consistent with workouts, or just want to understand your energy and focus on a deeper level, this episode gives you the neuroscience-backed tools to harness both motivation and discipline — no matter what phase you’re in.

Topics Covered:

  • The neuroscience of motivation (dopamine 101)
  • The brain circuits behind discipline
  • How estrogen influences motivation & focus
  • Motivation and discipline across your menstrual cycle
  • How to structure your goals and habits based on your hormones

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00:00- 01:47 Introduction and Gratitude

01:48- 03:53 Understanding Motivation and Discipline

03:54- 05:33 The Science of Motivation: Dopamine

05:34- 08:38 Hormonal Influence on Motivation

08:39- 09:14 Safely

09:15- 13:20 The Role of Discipline in Achieving Goals

13:21- 18:53 Practical Tips for Balancing Motivation and Discipline

18:54- 19:26 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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79:: The female brain on motivation & discipline (how estrogen influences our brain throughout the menstrual cycle!)

79:: The female brain on motivation & discipline (how estrogen influences our brain throughout the menstrual cycle!)