Nootropic supplements for motivation have become a part of my and many of my clients’ routines.
So, to help you choose a high-quality nootropic, I decided to compile a list of the best ones on the market. I’ve spent months testing different products with my clients and consulted a close doctor friend for the final verdict.
Keep reading to learn the ingredients, benefits, and side effects of the finest motivation supplements.
The Best Nootropic for Motivation
- Best Overall Nootropic for Motivation: Mind Lab Pro
- Cheapest Nootropic Capsules for Motivation: NeuroFuel
- Best Nootropic for Motivation and Stress: Onnit Alpha Brain
- Best Nootropic Capsules for Motivation and Focus: Gorilla Mind Smooth
- Best Natural Nootropic for Motivation: NooCube
- Best Nootropic for Motivation and Creativity: Hunter Focus
- Best Nootropic for Motivation and Mental Clarity: Gorilla Shroom
- Best Nootropic Powder for Sustained Energy and Motivation: TeaCrine
- Best Nootropic for Memory and Motivation: Qualia Mind
Our Best Nootropics for Motivation (July 2024)
1 - Mind Lab Pro (Best Overall)
- Price per serving : $1.73
- Key ingredients : Lion's Mane Mushroom, Citicoline, N-Acetyl-L-Tyrosine
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Its ingredients are devoid of additives, GMOs, and allergens
- The manufacturer offers a money-back guarantee for 60 days
- It strengthens the mind’s resistance to stress
- It is a third-party tested
Cons
- It does not include a subscription structure
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Those seeking comprehensive cognitive enhancement
- Individuals needing stress resistance
Who is it not for?
- People preferring subscription services
Final Verdict
Mind Lab Pro offers a robust formula with ingredients that boost cognitive performance and stress resistance. It's suitable for daily use with a satisfaction guarantee.
Mind Lab Pro ingredients are scientifically proven to improve brain function and promote motivation.
According to a study on PubMed, Rhodiola Rosea, one of the key constituents, improves physical and mental performance [1].
We also found a study in the National Library of Medicine that says that L-theanine has been demonstrated to lower stress-related signs and enhance general cognitive function after four weeks [2].
In my experience, after using Mind Lab Pro for 2 weeks, I felt an effective cognitive performance boost. I felt motivated every time I wanted to complete my workout.
Quick Facts:
2 - Onnit Alpha Brain (Best for Stress)
- Price per serving : $1.63
- Key ingredients : L-Theanine, Alpha GPC, Huperzia Serrata Extract
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- It is gluten, dairy, and stimulant-free
- It provides an intense focus due to phosphatidylserine
- It contains ingredients like L-theanine and oat straw that enable you to think more clearly under stressful situations
Cons
- It is more expensive than most motivation nootropics on the market
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Individuals under high stress
- Those needing clear focus and cognitive support
Who is it not for?
- Those on a tight budget due to its higher price
Final Verdict
Onnit Alpha Brain is designed to enhance mental clarity and focus in stressful situations. It's ideal for intense cognitive tasks and comes with high user satisfaction.
Taking Onnit Alpha Brain was like flipping a switch in my brain. I found myself more eager to hit the gym, my mood significantly lifted, and my motivation to push through the most grueling routines was higher than ever.
The components in are all natural and third-party tested for prohibited chemicals and impurities.
For instance, L-theanine in Onnit Alpha Brain helps in times of stress and reduces anxiety, getting you into a better mood [3].
L-leucine, another component, is employed in the production of proteins. It stimulates muscle growth as well as lean body mass while also healing the skin and bones [4].
Quick Facts:
3 - Gorilla Mind Smooth (Best for Focus)
- Price per serving : $1.50
- Key ingredients : Bacopa Monnieri, Alpha GPC, L-Theanine
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- It may improve dementia and other cognitive disorders
- It is a stimulant-free supplement
- It contains L-theanine that maximizes mental clarity and helps calm down the brain
Cons
- Its ingredients are somewhat low in dosages
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Those sensitive to stimulants
- People requiring focus under stress
Who is it not for?
- Individuals looking for higher dosages of active ingredients
Final Verdict
Gorilla Mind Smooth provides enhanced focus without the use of stimulants. It's well-suited for those who need to maintain concentration in demanding situations.
Gorilla Mind Smooth is a "non-stimulant" product for caffeine-sensitive people.
It contains tyrosine, a precursor to dopamine receptors, and norepinephrine which replenish their levels and thus improve cognitive function and focus under stressful tasks [5].
Also, several Kanna bioactive components have been investigated for their potential to ease anxiety, depression, and stress, as well as to increase feelings of well-being [6].
Ever since I started on Gorilla Mind Smooth, my focus has sharpened to a razor's edge. Even on days bogged down by stress, my concentration remains unshaken, allowing me to tackle complex tasks with a calm, collected mindset.
Quick Facts:
4 - NooCube (Best Natural)
- Price per serving : $1.08
- Key ingredients : Lutemax® 2020, Bacopa Monnieri, Panax Ginseng
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- It is a GMO and stimulant-free supplement
- It contains prebiotics and probiotics, which stabilizes mood and memory and boosts the gut-brain axis
- Its component, L-theanine, increases the synthesis of neurotransmitters like serotonin
Cons
- It takes about a week to start feeling the effects
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- People interested in a natural formula
- Those focusing on gut-brain health
Who is it not for?
- Users who prefer immediate results, as it takes time to feel effects
Final Verdict
NooCube promotes motivation through natural ingredients that support the gut-brain axis. It is ideal for sustained cognitive uplift with regular use.
Noocube boosts motivation by incorporating ingredients such as resveratrol. This compound keeps the brain sharp, strong, and active for a long time [7].
It differs from other motivation-boosting nootropics as it does not attempt to impact the blood-brain barrier or metabolism directly. Rather, this supplement aims at influencing the gut-brain axis [8].
It contains tributyrin, SunFiber, and Bacillus Coagulans, which can help boost your mood, motivation, and mental health while lowering insulin resistance and inflammation [9][10].
Our tests found that patience paid off with NooCube. The cognitive uplift gradually built up, and sticking with it daily led to a significant boost in my motivation levels.
Quick Facts:
5 - Hunter Focus (Best for Creativity)
- Price per serving : $3.00
- Key ingredients : Citicoline, L-Tyrosine, L-Theanine
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- It contains amino acids and natural herbs
- It has greater, more effective dosages than other nootropics
- It reduces the signs of stress and depression and can help heal nerve damage
Cons
- It is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Creatives needing enhanced cognitive function
- Those dealing with stress and depression
Who is it not for?
- Vegetarians or vegans due to its ingredient sourcing
Final Verdict
Hunter Focus is tailored for individuals seeking to boost creativity and mental energy. It provides effective dosages that support long-term cognitive health.
Hunter Focus includes vitamin complexes, such as vitamin B, CD3, and K2, that help the brain stay healthy [11] [12].
Moreover, it contains L-theanine, which improves motivation while promoting brain cell growth, performance, and activity [13].
“L-theanine induces anxiolytic calmness while maintaining – and often even improving – concentration, attention, and motivation. And it does so via increasing alpha brain waves, the brain frequencies linked with cognitive "relaxed wakefulness.”
- Ramon Velazquez, Doctor of Philosophy
Having said that, I noticed an increase in my mood and motivation toward workouts after taking this supplement. It boosted my focus and energy, and I was able to complete my exercises on time.
Quick Facts:
6 - Gorilla Shroom (Best for Mental Clarity)
- Price per serving : $2.00
- Key ingredients : Lion's Mane, Reishi, Cordyceps
- Third-party tested : No
Pros and Cons
Pros
- You can stack this supplement with other nootropics
- It promotes neurological improvements by incorporating Cordyceps mushrooms
- It contains Maitake and Lion’s Mane that provides motivation, mental clarity, and neuroprotective benefits
Cons
- It is expensive when compared to other motivation nootropics on the market
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Those looking for a blend of motivational mushrooms
- Individuals focused on mental clarity and cognitive function
Who is it not for?
- Budget-conscious consumers due to its higher cost
Final Verdict
Gorilla Shroom combines potent mushrooms to enhance memory, clarity, and motivation. It's a premium choice for those who can invest in their cognitive wellness.
Gorilla Shroom is a combination of mushrooms intended to help you achieve memory improvement, motivation, focus, vitality, and mental clarity.
It contains ingredients that have been utilized for thousands of years for their brain-boosting powers and the health advantages they provide.
Lion's Mane, Cordyceps, Reishi, and Maitake mushrooms are designed to boost your motivation, mental clarity, and cognitive function [14] [15].
When it comes to my experience with dosages, I used to take three pills in the morning, and they kept me focused until bedtime.
Quick Facts:
7 - TeaCrine (Best for Sustained Energy)
- Price per serving : $0.24
- Key ingredients : Theacrine
- Third-party tested : No
Pros and Cons
Pros
- It provides jitter-free sustained energy
- It improves focus and multitasking abilities
- It works quickly, reaching its full benefits in a few hours
Cons
- Does not include a scoop, so it’s difficult to measure the dosages
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Those needing sustained energy without jitters
- Multitaskers needing focus and energy
Who is it not for?
- Users who prefer precise dosing, as it lacks a measuring scoop
Final Verdict
TeaCrine offers sustained, jitter-free energy that enhances focus and multitasking ability. It's ideal for long periods of mental exertion and physical activity.
Theacrine is a caffeine-like naturally occurring substance and an active ingredient in this product.
Supplementing with theacrine may lead to feeling motivated, having more energy, and having better mental clarity [16].
It may also enhance your dopamine neurons and serotonin in the prefrontal cortex, thus boosting your moods [17].
TeaCrine always gives me four hours of effective benefits. That is enough time to complete my workouts and continue going strong with the other activities.
Quick Facts:
8 - Qualia Mind (Best for Memory)
- Price per serving : $0.60
- Key ingredients : Artichoke extract, Forskolin, Acetyl-L-Carnitine, L-Phenylalanine
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- It enhances learning and memory by facilitating the release of acetylcholine within the brain
- The company offers a 100-day money-back guarantee
- Its component, acetyl-L-carnitine, helps defend against dementia, depression, and ischemia
Cons
- It may be tiresome to consume seven capsules every day
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Individuals seeking memory improvement
- Users needing enhanced learning capabilities
Who is it not for?
- Those unwilling to manage a higher capsule intake daily
Final Verdict
Qualia Mind supports extensive cognitive enhancement, particularly in memory and learning. It’s well-suited for academic and professional settings requiring sharp mental performance.
Qualia Mind is a supplement with many active components capable of improving your cognitive performance, motivation, and attention.
Huperzine A is a chemical that has exhibited the potential to prevent mild cognitive impairment and the detrimental effects of neurotransmission that stimulate glutamate AMPA receptors [18].
Bacopa Monnieri considerably increases learning rate, memory formation, and anxiety reduction speed when visually processing information [19].
Qualia Mind has been a game-changer for my memory recall and focus. My clients have echoed similar sentiments, feeling more driven and alert. It's been the key to unlocking a more productive and attentive state of mind.
Quick Facts:
9 - NeuroFuel (Cheapest Option)
- Price per serving : $0.93
- Key ingredients : Ginkgo biloba, Alpha GPC, Bacopa monnieri, DHA
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- It contains acetyl-L-carnitine that prevents memory decline
- Its vitamin B6 helps increase dopamine synthesis and enhance metabolism
- It enhances episodic secondary memory and long-term memory due to Forskohlii and L-phenylalanine
Cons
- It offers only 15 servings per bottle
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Those looking for budget-friendly cognitive enhancement
- Individuals with focus on long-term memory benefits
Who is it not for?
- People who prefer larger quantity per bottle as it only offers 15 servings
Final Verdict
NeuroFuel offers a cost-effective solution for enhancing cognitive function and memory. It’s particularly effective for students and professionals needing long-term benefits.
NeuroFuel is a nutritional supplement that eliminates brain fog, improves attention, and provides endless energy due to its formula that helps safeguard brain health.
Its unique combination of ingredients may also help you protect your central nervous system by stimulating the metabotropic glutamate receptors. This leads to enhanced memory and attention.
Its ingredient, artichoke, has antioxidant benefits and can reduce cholesterol production and improve cognitive function.
Moreover, it may lead to improved long-term memory, increased alertness, and neuroprotection [20].
I could feel the benefits of NeuroFuel the first day I used it. The product lifted my brain fog and made me feel more energized.
Quick Facts:
10 - N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine
- Price per serving : $0.19
- Key ingredients : N-Acetyl-L-Tyrosine
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- It boosts alertness and cognition under stress
- It may improve mood and increase thyroid hormone production
- It speeds up the metabolization
Cons
- It may cause headaches and fatigue
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- People under stress needing cognitive support
- Individuals seeking mood improvement
Who is it not for?
- Those sensitive to amino acid-based supplements
Final Verdict
N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine is excellent for improving alertness and mood under stress. It supports cognitive function effectively, making it suitable for high-pressure environments.
N-acetyl L-tyrosine is a compound beneficial for motivation since it is the amino acid source of dopamine.
If you don't have enough N-acetyl L-tyrosine in the body, you'll have fewer dopamine levels and no motivation [21].
N-acetyl L-tyrosine improves memory, executive function, and innovative flow states and reduces stress while elevating mood [22].
It is a very efficient nootropic for brain function that aids in the maintenance of mental performance under severe stress [23].
When I tested this supplement, I certainly felt a boost in motivation and could also pay attention for extended periods. The tablets are small and simple to take and have no taste.
Quick Facts:
How We Tested the Best Nootropics for Motivation
Here's how we chose the best nootropics for motivation:
1. Selection of Nootropics
We began by curating a diverse list of nootropics, both natural and synthetic, renowned for their motivational properties. Each product was selected based on its popularity, ingredient quality, and preliminary research suggesting its efficacy in enhancing motivation and mental clarity.
2. Dosage and Administration
To maintain consistency, we adhered strictly to the recommended dosages provided by the manufacturers. Testers consumed the nootropics under similar conditions each day, such as before a workout or during their most demanding cognitive tasks, to accurately assess the motivational effects.
3. Price Consideration
We included a range of products across various price points, ensuring that our recommendations cater to both budget-conscious consumers and those willing to invest more in high-quality options.
We assessed the cost per serving, the availability of discounts for bulk purchases, and subscription services to provide a comprehensive view of the value offered by each nootropic.
4. Ingredient Analysis
The ingredients of each nootropic were scrutinized for quality and potential efficacy. We favored products with transparent labeling, clinically proven components, and a clear indication of dosage.
Our team researched each ingredient to understand its role in enhancing motivation and cognitive function. We also considered the synergy between ingredients as well as the presence of any fillers or artificial additives that might detract from the product's overall purity and impact.
5. Effectiveness Assessment
We measured how each nootropic influenced motivation levels during various tasks that require sustained mental energy, such as studying, working on complex projects, or engaging in intensive workout sessions.
Testers kept detailed daily logs of their experiences, noting any changes in their motivation levels, cognitive performance, and overall mood. They also recorded any side effects or discomforts experienced, providing a well-rounded view of each nootropic's impact.
Buyer’s Guide
Through in-depth evaluation and working with a team of specialists, we’ve made it our mission to spotlight nootropics that are worth your money.
Therefore, consider the following factors while selecting a motivation nootropic supplement:
Possible Side Effects
Some nootropic compounds, such as L-tyrosine, might cause indigestion, sleeplessness, and skin irritation.
Educating yourself about the potential adverse effects of each nootropic product accessible to you may assist you in picking the best based on your preferences.
"It is our responsibility, like with any other medicine, to conduct research and be cognizant of what we put into our bodies."
- Jacob Kovacs, Neuroscientist
Ingredients
Active elements such as B vitamins and L-theanine are necessary for increasing motivation. Other components, such as Lion's Mane mushroom, have been shown to boost brain cell proliferation [24].
Understanding the science behind each component and whether or not it is a useful nootropic assists you in selecting the ideal supplement.
Legality of Nootropics
Synthetic nootropics, such as certain racetams, may be regulated or even require a prescription, depending on your location. Natural supplements, while generally more accessible, can vary greatly in concentration and purity.
Always ensure that the nootropics you consider are legal in your country and align with your personal values and the regulations of any competitive activities you participate in.
Natural vs. Synthetic Nootropics
Natural nootropics, such as Ginkgo Biloba or Lion's Mane Mushroom, are typically associated with fewer side effects and a long history of traditional use. These substances often have multiple health benefits and tend to be gentler on the system, with a lower incidence of side effects.
When selecting natural nootropics, look for reputable brands that provide clear information about sourcing, extraction methods, and concentration. Certifications such as USDA Organic or Non-GMO can also be indicators of quality.
Synthetic nootropics are man-made substances designed to target specific cognitive functions. They can be potent but also carry more potential side effects.
Who Should Take Nootropics for Motivation?
You should take nootropics for motivation if you want to increase your dopamine levels, boost your energy and mood, and elevate your mental activity.
In addition, people suffering from mental fatigue that may be underlying their lack of motivation can take these products.
For example, if you're bone-tired and have little interest in pursuing an activity or project, a nootropic might assist in raising your energy levels.
Related Articles:
Who Shouldn't Take Nootropics for Motivation?
You should not take nootropics for motivation if you are pregnant or nursing.
Moreover, persons under 18 and those suffering from underlying diseases should avoid these products.
If you are taking certain medications, you should avoid using nootropics, as they may interact with the drugs you are taking.
However, I recommend talking to your doctor about the safety of any nootropic before taking it.
FAQs
Do Nootropics Help With Motivation?
Yes, nootropics help with motivation. They can improve dopamine levels, energy, and performance by boosting focus, cognition, and alertness.
What Is the Best Nootropic to Increase Motivation?
The best nootropic to increase motivation is L-theanine. It increases alpha brainwave activity, the EEG-monitored brain frequencies linked with cognitive "relaxed wakefulness.”
What Nootropic Increases Dopamine?
The nootropic that increases dopamine levels is L-tyrosine. It has a particularly powerful nootropic impact on mood because it increases levels of the chemical L-DOPA, which is a precursor to dopamine.
Our Verdict on the Best Nootropic for Motivation
After extensive testing and personal trials, my top pick for the best nootropic for motivation is Mind Lab Pro.
Its comprehensive formula not only boosted my cognitive performance but also consistently enhanced my motivation for workouts and daily tasks. Our tests found it's a clean, effective option free from additives and allergens, and it's backed by a reassuring money-back guarantee.
While it lacks a subscription option, the benefits it offers, including stress resistance and third-party testing verification, make it a standout choice for anyone looking to improve their mental drive.
Our #1 Recommendation
Mind Lab Pro (Best Overall)
Rated With Total Shape's Scoring System
- Its ingredients are devoid of additives, GMOs, and allergens
- The manufacturer offers a money-back guarantee for 60 days
- It strengthens the mind’s resistance to stress
- It is a third-party tested
- Get the BEST PRICE until the end of July
- It does not include a subscription structure
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