Why Change is So Hard with Katy Milkman, Behavioral Scientist

Why do so many goals start with excitement but end with frustration? Whether it's exercising more, eating healthier, saving money, or finally tackling that important project, lasting change is harder than it seems. The good news? It's not because you lack motivation. It's because behavior change follows patterns that science can explain. About this Episode In this episode, I'm joined by renowned behavioral scientist Dr. Katy Milkman to explore why change feels so difficult and what we can do to make lasting habits more achievable. Drawing from years of research in behavioral science, Katy explains why motivation fades, how small decisions shape long-term outcomes, and the practical strategies that help people stick with their goals long after the initial excitement wears off. Whether you're trying to improve your health, grow your career, strengthen your finances, or simply build better habits, this conversation will help you work with your brain instead of against it. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN • Why lasting behavior change is harder than most people expect • The science behind fresh starts and why they can motivate change • How small daily decisions shape long-term success • What the Baseball Study reveals about maintaining momentum • Why creating better defaults makes good habits easier • How temptation bundling can make difficult tasks more enjoyable • Practical ways to stay motivated when life gets busy • Simple behavioral strategies that make positive habits stick TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction 08:22 Why better decisions begin with understanding behavior 16:19 How to recreate the motivation of a fresh start 22:18 Lessons from the Baseball Study 26:25 Why smart defaults make change easier 31:13 Using temptation bundling to build better habits 37:02 How to maintain momentum over time LINKS & RESOURCES 👉 Learn more about Dr. Katy Milkman: https://www.katymilkman.com/ 👉 Book an exploratory coaching call: http://brilliant-balance.com/explore 👉 Subscribe for weekly content from Cherylanne: https://brilliantbalance.substack.com/ 👉 Follow Cherylanne on Instagram:   / cskolnicki   Subscribe for more: If this episode helped you rethink the way you approach habits, motivation, and personal growth, subscribe for more weekly conversations designed to help ambitious women create lasting success without burning out. Like this video, leave a comment sharing the habit you're working on right now, and send this episode to someone who's ready to make meaningful, lasting change.