The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos Stop Wasting Your Energy — Here’s What to Do Instead (with Dr. Diana Hill)
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Jan 5, 2026 
Dr. Diana Hill, a clinical psychologist and author of Wise Effort, shares insights on how to channel our energy more effectively. She discusses the importance of psychological flexibility over relentless effort, encouraging listeners to re-evaluate commitments through the lens of the sunk cost fallacy. Dr. Hill emphasizes curiosity as a tool for discovering new possibilities and promotes journaling to gain perspective. She highlights the role of values in guiding energy allocation and introduces practical strategies for embracing discomfort while pursuing what truly matters.
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Values Anchor Process Over Outcomes
- Values focus the process, not shifting finish lines or outcomes.
- Emphasizing the process keeps you engaged even when outcomes move forward.
When Stuck, Try Wide Behavioral Variation
- Seek behavioral variation when you feel stuck: try different actions, then notice and reinforce what works.
- Repeat variation, selection, and retention to evolve your behavior.
Face Discomfort To Pursue What Matters
- Stop avoiding discomfort because avoidance creates secondary problems and blocks values-driven action.
- Practice being with discomfort to pursue what truly matters.
