Good intentions? You won't keep them anyway! - Why emotions are the key to real change
It's the same every year. New Year's Eve is barely over and they're already pouring out of us - the good intentions:
More sport. Less alcohol. Eat healthier. Quit smoking at last. More time for family, friends or simply yourself.
But motivation is often short-lived. The daily grind strikes, the inner bastard kicks in and the familiar voice in your head whispers: You can't keep it up anyway. Why don't you just leave it, then you won't be disappointed (again).
Why is that?
In our new episode of the Three Men Podcast, we looked at this very question. From our perspective as coaches and emotion experts, we take a look at the real reasons why good intentions so often fail - and what you can do to change that.
Away-from-goals rarely work
Many New Year's resolutions have a negative focus: eat less, stop smoking, no more alcohol. The problem? Such 'get away from' goals create a sense of loss. We say goodbye to something that offers us comfort (at least in the short term) - and that's exactly what feels bad emotionally.
Emotions instead of discipline - the real key
We all like to believe that discipline is the key to success. But the truth is: emotions determine whether we stick with it in the long term. The emotions of disgust, sadness and joy in particular play a central role when we want to let go of old habits and establish new ones.
If we only give something up because we are disgusted (e.g. by the health consequences of smoking), this often creates an emotional void. This is not enough to be successful in the long term.
Add-on goals provide energy
Add-on goals are much more effective than "away-from" goals: What do I want instead? What positive vision inspires me so much that I am willing to change my habits? Instead of "I want to smoke less", the goal could be: "I want to run around the playground with my children full of energy - without getting out of breath."
An emotionally powerful image that makes you want to achieve it - that's the difference.
Small steps, big impact
Another secret to success: the 1% method. Instead of making huge changes that are overwhelming, small, daily improvements lead to real success in the long term.
Whether it's a healthier diet, more exercise or a better work-life balance - small steps add up. And every small success gives you new energy.
Conclusion: Emotion beats discipline
Change succeeds when we harness the power of our emotions. When we allow ourselves to say goodbye to the old, develop a clear vision of our "add" goal - and then take small, feasible steps along the way.
Discipline is helpful, but emotions are the real driver.
Fancy more?
In the latest episode of our Three Men podcast, we delve even deeper into the topic - including personal stories, practical tips and the tip of the day.
👉 Listen now and get started with fun and emotion!
