The Goal Gradient Effect
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The Goal Gradient Effect
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About this listen
Ever wonder why, once you can see the finish line, you start to sprint? Whether it’s a race, a project, or your tenth cup of coffee on a 12-punch card, it feels like when the end is near, we get much more determined to complete our goals. This is called the Goal Gradient Effect, and it’s the topic of this week’s episode. From rats in mazes to mile 13 of a half-marathon, we break down how proximity to a reward boosts motivation and how you can harness this effect to make progress feel more achievable.
Chapter Markers:
00:00 – Intro - What is the Goal Gradient Effect?
01:41 – Historical roots: Clark Hull’s rat maze
03:00 – Modern-day examples: Punch cards and projects
05:26 – The psychology behind why it works
07:39 – Real Life Applications
10:28 – Breaking down goals
11:48 – This week’s challenge