Don’t go all in when things go off track

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How to Be Stronger Than the “What The Hell” Effect

When life throws you and your goals a curve, don’t give up

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Has this ever happened to you? You’ve decided to make a change in your life. Let’s say something like eating healthier so you can drop some pounds. So you’ve started bringing a salad from home for lunch every day — no more fast food for you — just well-thought-out, healthy choices.

Your intentions are good, your actions are on point, and you’re committed to making a real change.

Everything is working out great. You’re looking good, your clothes are fitting better, and you’re feeling virtuous about your choices. And then…

Since so many birthday celebrations were missed during 2020, it’s time to make up for them, so someone brings a birthday cake to the office.

This time it’s your favorite chocolate with buttercream frosting, and you can’t say no to a piece. It tastes delicious, but you now realize that you’ve broken your commitment and fallen off the healthy food wagon.

The thought pops up in your mind, “I’ve blown my plan to eat better, so I might as well have another piece of this amazing cake.”

And just like that, you’ve fallen victim to the What the Hell Effect, which can be neatly summarized by the…

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Ellen Goodwin
Ellen Goodwin

Written by Ellen Goodwin

Productivity Consultant, TEDx Speaker, Podcast Co-host, Author of DONE: How To Work When No One Is Watching. Learn more at Ellen@EllenGoodwin.com

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