Decision fatigue and the limbic system

Ever wake up with the best intentions — to eat plant-based, stay consistent, finish what matters — only to feel everything unravel by late afternoon?

You’re not broken. You’re human.

In this episode, Michele breaks down why so many good intentions collapse by the end of the day, especially when you’re trying to move in a vegan or plant-based direction. Using simple brain science, behavioral economics, and a whole lot of compassion, she explains what’s really happening when motivation fades — and why relying on willpower alone almost guarantees frustration.

You’ll learn why mornings feel easy, why evenings feel impossible, and how your brain quietly shifts from long-term values to short-term relief as stress and decision fatigue build. Most importantly, you’ll hear why self-blame and shame actually make follow-through harder — not easier.

This episode isn’t about trying harder. It’s about working with your brain instead of against it.In this episode, we cover:

• Why morning intentions come from a different part of the brain than evening decisions

• How decision fatigue drains self-regulation as the day goes on

• The role of the limbic system in comfort-seeking and familiar habits

• Why knowing better doesn’t mean you’ll automatically do better

• How shame shuts down problem-solving and keeps people stuck

• Why motivation is unreliable — and what works better instead

• The power of “implementation intentions” (If X happens, I’ll do Y)

If you’ve ever said, “I’ll be good tomorrow,” this episode will help you understand why — and what to do differently next time.

Your intentions are not weak. Your values are not unclear. You just need a plan that supports the way your brain actually works.

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