Self-Determination Theory

 The Self-Determination Theory (SDT) explains human motivation through three basic psychological needs: autonomy, competence, and relatedness (or positive relationships). It addresses that these needs must be fulfilled for people to experience higher levels of intrinsic motivation so they can engage in activities for personal satisfaction and growth rather than for external rewards, which cannot sustain motivation over long periods of time or at the same levels.

Within this theory, there are specific frameworks to understand how it works in practical settings. One way is through the Cognitive Evaluation Theory (CET), a sub-theory of SDT that focuses on how external social and environmental factors influence a person’s development of intrinsic motivation. It suggests that an individual’s perception of feedback and control affects their sense of competence and autonomy. When people feel that their actions are self-directed and that their efforts are valued, intrinsic motivation will increase. The opposite occurs when an individual has less control and receives negative feedback, then their motivation will decrease.

This theory and sub-theory provide a great understanding of Daisy’s motivation toward becoming a great artist and making music. Specifically, the components of autonomy, competence, and positive relationships are perfect factors to analyze. Throughout her journey and career, Daisy seeks creativity, control, and authenticity, resisting the pressures of other people wanting her to change and the industry’s attempts to mold her into commercial standards. This is seen in her bold demeanor and in her approach to selectively sharing her songs with others, because she is actually very sensitive and cares deeply about being accepted. Secondly, her desire for competence is driven by her need for control and evidence of truth, as the only way she feels happy in her talent is when it reflects authenticity. Lastly, the component of positive relationships is fueled by the lack of love she felt from her parents, which lies at the core of her need for relatedness and belonging. At the end of it all, she craves having a family and feeling valued for her authenticity which will overcome the loneliness that has followed her since being rejected in childhood.

This theory is especially evident in her first time meeting The Six and when she sings with Billy Dunne. It is the collaboration that marks the beginning of her career, giving her ample feedback and autonomy that inspire her motivation to new heights. In their first encounter, Daisy candidly admits her criticism of the song that Billy had written and struggled to get produced. She asks him what the meaning of the song is and follows it up by stating, “The song is more of a speech when the feelings of the lyrics deserve at least a conversation.” This leaves Billy shocked and annoyed that she would question his ability because he doesn’t understand that Daisy’s artistry is rooted in her need for control over her authenticity when it comes to music-making. Billy, being the older brother of the band and lead singer, had never been challenged in this way. He often had the final say and had only scratched the surface of his potential, as reflected in his desire to erase his mistakes. Daisy pushes him to dig deeper and, in doing so, exercises her own need for autonomy. 

As a result, she gains more control over the creative direction of the studio session, encouraging him to be more honest about his intentions and the messages in the music they are creating together. Her willingness to speak up and lead creatively demonstrates her growing autonomy and confidence in her artistic instincts. As she progresses toward her goals, she is clearly on the path to greatness, the song blows up immediately, and they both begin earning commissions after it stays on the music charts for weeks. Eventually, they are asked to perform together.

Once they begin making waves in the music field and gain recognition for having the song of the summer, Daisy starts to feel rewarded for her work. She finally gets paid and prepares for her first performance with the band. Taking a creative lead in that moment transforms both Daisy’s and the band’s trajectory. Her influence helps the song reach new heights on the music charts, showcasing her developing competence. As she begins to receive positive feedback from the record label, radio stations, and live audiences, her sense of mastery and validation grows. These external signals, interpreted through the lens of Cognitive Evaluation Theory, reinforce her intrinsic motivation. They communicate that her contributions are valuable and that she truly belongs in this space.

When the band accepts the gig, the significance of positive relationships becomes more evident as her desire to belong becomes stronger. Before going on stage, Daisy watches the band gather together in a motivational circle. In this moment, there is a physical divide between her and the band’s unity. It becomes obvious that Daisy longs to bond with the group and be a part of their family, but her proximity to greatness and Billy’s role as a husband and father—complicates that connection. It becomes a complex need to navigate: the creative chemistry between them and the potential to belong to their larger family becomes a pivotal aspect of her inspiration. Keeping her need for relatedness as a significant component of her motivation, building these relationships closer to her allows Daisy’s intrinsic motivation to thrive.

Through the lens of Self-Determination Theory and Cognitive Evaluation Theory, Daisy’s motivation can be understood as the result of an environment that fosters her autonomy, recognizes her competence, and fulfills her need for connection. Her passion for authentic artistry is sustained by the freedom to express herself and the encouragement she receives from others who value her talent. Together, these experiences shape her persistence, creativity, and the meaningful fulfillment she finds in her music.