3926: How to Achieve Your Goals By Creating an Enemy by Nir Eyal of Nir And Far on Scapegoating Psychology

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Recorded26 Feb 2026

Publisherrss.pdrl.fm

Handlerec:16171777

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Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3926: Nir Eyal reveals how inventing an imaginary adversary can help us overcome self-sabotage and reclaim control over our behavior. By understanding the psychology of scapegoating, reactance, and perceived powerlessness, he shows how we can channel resistance into fuel for focus, discipline, and lasting behavior change. When applied thoughtfully, this counterintuitive strategy can strengthen willpower and help us follow through on what truly matters. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.nirandfar.com/2017/02/goals-enemy.html Quotes to ponder: "Most of us have two lives. The life we live, and the unlived life within us. Between the two stands Resistance." "Resistance is always plotting against you." "The practice of imagining a villain that’s conspiring against us, scapegoating can be an effective way to motivate ourselves and change our behaviors." Episode references: SuperBetter by Jane McGonigal: https://www.amazon.com/SuperBetter-Power-Living-Gameful-Life/dp/0143109774 The War of Art by Steven Pressfield: https://www.amazon.com/War-Art-Through-Creative-Battles/dp/1936891026 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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