In this episode, Michelle Segar explores why all-or-nothing thinking keeps you from exercising, and why the problem may not be a lack of motivation or willpower. Drawing on groundbreaking new research, she reveals how rigid exercise standards, perfectionism, and the belief that workouts only “count” if they’re done a certain way often lead people to do nothing at all. Michelle also discusses the hidden psychology behind sustainable change, the power of flexibility at life’s inevitable choice points, and why “a little bit of something is better than a lot of nothing” may be the most important mindset shift for long-term success. You’ll gain a new understanding of the limitations of habit formation, the role of behavioral resilience, and how learning to adapt rather than start over can help us build a healthier and more meaningful life. Good Wolf Reminders… A little wisdom, right when you need it. Start receiving free text reminders designed to help you pause, reflect, and take meaningful action. Sign up at oneyoufeed.net/sms. Key Takeaways: Research on sustainable behavior change in physical activity and exercise. The impact of all-or-nothing thinking on exercise habits. The concept of “choice points” in decision-making regarding exercise. The influence of rigid standards and idealized criteria for exercise. The role of motivation and enjoyment in maintaining exercise routines. The prioritization of exercise compared to other daily responsibilities. The unconscious nature of rigid standards and avoidance behaviors. Societal messaging around exercise guidelines and its effects on motivation. Strategies for flexibility and resilience in exercise routines. The idea of a “movement menu” to encourage varied physical activity choices. For full show notes: click here! If you enjoyed this conversation with Michelle Segar, check out these other episodes: Understanding Choice Points for Lasting Changes in Eating and Exercise with Michelle Segar Why Willpower Isn’t Enough: The Tiny Habits Method Explained with Dr. BJ Fogg By purchasing products and/or services from our sponsors, you are helping to support The One You Feed, and we greatly appreciate it. Thank you! This episode is sponsored by: Shopify – The commerce platform that helps you build, grow, and manage your business all in one place. Start your $1/month trial at shopify.com/feed. David Protein bars deliver up to 28g of protein for just 150 calories—without sacrificing taste! For a limited time, our listeners can receive this special deal: buy 4 cartons and get the 5th free when you go to www.davidprotein.com/FEED Alma has a directory of 20,000 therapists with different specialities, life experiences, and identities, and 99% of them take insurance. Visit helloalma.com to learn more! Talkiatry connects you with licensed psychiatrists for personalized, evidence-based mental health care, all online and covered by most major insurance plans. To get matched with an in-network psychiatrist in just a few minutes, visit Talkiatry.com/FEED. Tiny Health's at-home gut health test provides science-backed insights into your microbiome, along with personalized recommendations to help you improve your digestion, energy, and overall well-being. Get $50 off your first test kit at tinyhealth.com/FEED Brodo Broth: Shop the best broth on the planet with Brodo. Head to Brodo.com/TOYF for 20% off your first subscription order and use code TOYF for an additional $10 off. Quince: Refresh your wardrobe with Quince by going to Quince.com/feed for free shipping and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too. Rocket Money Let Rocket Money help you reach your financial goals faster. Join at rocketmoney.com/feed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
