The Active Life Podcast Why Smart People Stay Stuck: The Truth About “Not the Right Time”
Oct 21, 2025
Cody Ringle and Larry Gaier explore why intelligent individuals often feel stuck, particularly due to the mindset of 'not the right time.' They share Sarah’s shoulder surgery story to highlight how delays can hinder recovery. The hosts delve into the psychological habits that keep people in discomfort, showing that chronic issues rarely resolve on their own. They emphasize the importance of recognizing readiness when seeking help and model practical strategies for coaches to effectively navigate timing objections. It's a powerful discussion on action versus hesitation!
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Sarah's Post-Surgery Delay
- Sarah had rotator cuff surgery three years earlier and still avoided 95–98% of activities she wanted to do.
- She sought help years later but told the practitioner, "I don't know that now's the right time."
Familiar Discomfort Beats Uncertain Effort
- Humans conserve energy and prefer familiar discomfort because change requires effort and uncertainty.
- That biological tendency pushes people to stick with a painful but known state rather than risk the unknown.
Chronic Issues Usually Worsen Over Time
- Chronic musculoskeletal problems rarely resolve on their own and often worsen if left unaddressed.
- Waiting increases cascade effects across the body and makes future change harder and costlier.