This episode explores the challenges of self-sabotage and why building better habits is often harder than it looks. It breaks down the real meaning of habits, discipline, and willpower, and introduces the Mental House Model as a framework for understanding personal change. The conversation highlights how adults learn best, why self-efficacy is crucial for lasting progress, and how systems can simplify behavior change.
Listeners will learn how to close the intention-behavior gap, make conscious trade-offs, and define the vision and identity that drive personal development. This episode is about creating structure, building confidence, and curating the internal and external environment needed to stop self-sabotage and follow through on what matters.
Key Takeaways
Self-sabotage is common; most people know what to do but struggle to apply it
Habits, discipline, and willpower each play a distinct role in behavior change
Discipline works on a spectrum and is not all-or-nothing
The Mental House Model helps visualize factors that support or block progress
Adults learn best when they have ownership and self-efficacy
Closing the intention-behavior gap requires commitment, not just knowledge
Systems make habits easier by reducing decision fatigue
Time is created, not found, by choosing priorities
Trade-offs are necessary to reach goals
Vision and identity shape long-term personal growth
Memorable Quotes
“Take a hard audit of your life.”
“You get what you ask for.”
“Define who you want to be.”
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Self-Sabotage and Habit Building
02:50 Understanding Habits, Discipline, and Willpower
05:37 The Mental House Model for Habit Formation
08:50 Creating a Supportive Environment for Change
11:35 Defining Your Identity and Self-Concept
14:13 Curating Your Internal and External Inputs
16:59 Establishing Triggers and Contingencies for Success
25:09 The Importance of Maintenance in Life
26:51 Understanding Adult Learning and Self-Ownership
28:39 Building Self-Efficacy and Confidence
34:32 Creating Systems for Sustainable Change
37:43 Bridging the Intention-Behavior Gap
43:55 Defining Your Vision and Values
Calvin Trieu, M.S. | Performance & Nutrition Coach
Calvin Trieu Concepts
Subscribe to My Podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/calvin-trieu
Subscribe to My Newsletters: https://calvin-trieu-concepts.kit.com/profile?_gl=1*1x1j08e*_gcl_au*NjY1MTEyMTU1LjE3MzYzNTg0NTE.
Follow My Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calvintrieu.co/?hl=en
Follow My TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@calvintrieu.co?lang=en
Subscribe to My YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@calvintrieuco
Work or train with me: https://calvintrieu.co