Thinking Traps | Overcoming the All-or-Nothing Mentality in Goal Setting

The word “stick” gives us a clue about how we often approach our plans. It suggests we need to be glued to them - following every detail without deviation. We convince ourselves that the only way to get results is to dig deep, push through no matter how we feel, and never change course.

When we question this rigid thinking, we see that it is not helpful or logical – it also discourages progress because it is a trap.

A more helpful thought is:

Keep the plan, but make it flexible rather than rigid.

When you’re glued to a food or exercise plan, you don’t think, adapt, or respond to real life. You believe that making any adjustment means you’ve lost your willpower.

The word “rigid” means stiff, unyielding, and resistant to change. 

While having a plan is important, being rigid leads to an all-or-nothing mindset. When life gets in the way, it feels like you’ve failed, so the whole plan is abandoned.

Flexibility is what keeps you moving forward. Flexibility keeps you committed to your plan. 

Here are a few steps to help you develop a flexible approach.

Step 1: Write down the plan you would like to achieve.

Step 2: Before you begin, ask yourself:

• Is this plan specific?

• Is it realistic for the week ahead and my real life?

• Does it leave me feeling motivated and excited to get started?

Step 3: Make sure your plan supports your bigger vision and values, ask yourself:

• Is this helping me build the lifestyle I want for the long term?

• Why is this important to me?

• How will accomplishing this plan make my life better?

Step 4: As you put your plan into action, stay curious. Notice what’s working and what isn’t and be willing to make adjustments.

Remember, making changes to your plan isn’t giving up- it’s problem-solving.

Here is a video that walks you through the steps above to clarify what you want to achieve.

Watch Video