1. You can't mention money as your reason. 2. You can't quote Daniel Pink
Are you motivated by solving problems using a new technology or architecture design?
Do you enjoy being a part of a team who takes great pride in what they do? Elaborate a little if this is true.
Do you like the ownership it gives you in solving problems?
Is it because you enjoy using a mixture of languages and /newer/ technology like Kafka?
But honestly, my main motivating factor for solving problems for somebody else instead of for me is money.
In a way, it kind of feels like exploring.
Stay VERY hungry, curious and be careful with the Dunning–Kruger effect. Just remember, when older people give you advice, keep in mind two things.
1) They were once younger and had people give them advice as well. 2) They're only giving you advice because they see potential in you; otherwise, they wouldn't say shit :)
Thanks for providing your perspective!
Other than that ... I enjoy learning new stuff, solving problems, and helping other folks get their work done faster, easier, better.
What's so interesting is the theme of learning and doing for others. Are you ever interested in using a new technology and do you feel that also at times make you consider leaving a job because of it?
Much of the time, I have not had to change jobs just to learn something new (and a couple times, I've changed jobs and trained folks on what I already knew)