What Drives Us to Act: Insights from 100 Inspiring Leaders

Recently on the Extrology podcast, I had the pleasure of interviewing Tom Peacock-Nazil, CEO and Founder of Seven Clean Seas for the 100th epsiode.

As with every guest on Extrology, there’s always something profound to learn from the stories of others—stories that inspire, connect, and shape our perspectives. It’s how humanity has evolved for millennia. I’m fascinated by the endless possibilities that arise when we follow a thread, tugging at it persistently until, before we know it, we find ourselves on a new path, with a world we barely imagined stretching out both before and behind us.

Tom is a truly inspiring individual. In just six years, he has built an organisation with a bold mission: to remove 10 million kilograms of plastic from our oceans by 2025. They're well on their way to not only achieving that goal but surpassing it.

What drives some of us to act? What triggers that moment when a single decision gathers enough momentum to become an unstoppable force—an idea that pushes through every obstacle in its way? Building something meaningful is never easy; it always faces countless challenges.

When I say "meaningful," I’m talking about what matters to you personally. Real change, the kind that’s worth making, is never simple.

At what point does the compulsion to act turn into such a compelling vision that, before you know it, there’s a whole movement of people looking to you for direction, guidance, and answers?

I’ve sat on a beach, awestruck by its natural beauty, mesmerised by the rhythmic tide, and enchanted by the crashing waves. Yet, when I saw plastic debris wash ashore, I quietly tutted and moved on. Why didn’t that drive me to act the way it did Tom? I don’t ask this to berate myself, though reflecting on my own inaction was a humbling experience. Tom didn’t make me feel inadequate—far from it. In fact, he’s an incredibly decent, selfless, and driven person. Listen to the episode and see for yourself. To me, it’s a privilege to spend time with someone like him.

I’m genuinely fascinated by what it takes for someone to act. What goes on in their mind—the psychology, the emotions, the analysis? The nervous excitement, the inner conflict, the doubts, and the courage it takes to overcome that first step towards change, whether for themselves or for others.

The common thread among the 100 guests I’ve had the privilege of interviewing on Extrology is their propensity to act. None of them started with the so-called "advantages" we often attribute to success. There were no silver spoons.

Sure, some were academically gifted, others had street smarts, some had exceptional physical talents or mental toughness. But each of them had to overcome adversity, take action, and keep moving forward. They were all compelled, in unique and personal ways, to take that first crucial step—and to keep going.

To every one of you who has taken that first step toward change, thank you.

If you're curious about how Tom took that first step or are looking for inspiration to start your own journey, I encourage you to listen to the full episode. His story might just spark the change you're looking for.

Turning Passion into Global Change with CEO of Seven Clean Seas, Tom Peacock-Nazil.