In her first lecture on August 29 on the topic of “A Motivational Theory of Life-Span Development”, Prof. Heckhausen presented both the theoretical basics of a life-course perspective focusing on the development of motivation and a series of empirical findings concerning the meaning and the effects of motivational changes in different age groups. In her second lecture on September 5, Prof. Heckhausen outlined a theoretical systematic conception of analysis concerning the use of NEPS data. In so doing, Prof. Heckhausen connected theoretical motivational ideas with perspectives of sociological analysis. She thus revealed the huge potential of NEPS data to be used for a wealth of fascinating research questions. Besides the two lectures, Prof. Heckhausen was also available for consultation, an opportunity which was gladly appreciated by the NEPS staff.