The context of the following conversation is Austin promised Robin a raise if she got the new client. Austin gave Robin reason to succeed.:
Robin says Austin told me I would get a raise if I got the new client.  That motivated me to work harder..
The friend responds That would motivate many people..
Robin responds It just gave me a reason to succeed.  There's a prize for working..
The friend responds Compensation is the prize for working..
Robin responds I think of everything like a game, including my job..
The friend responds We have to get through it somehow.