Behavioral research shows an intention–action gap: we plan more than we perform. The planning fallacy (Kahneman and Tversky; Buehler et al., 1994) leads us to underestimate effort and time, while the brain rewards anticipation—talking about goals can trigger dopamine akin to making progress. Moreover, hyperbolic discounting favors easy present talk over effortful future deeds.
Fortunately, implementation intentions—specific if–then plans—help convert resolve into results. Peter Gollwitzer’s work (1999) demonstrates that “If it’s 7 a.m., then I will run 2 miles” outperforms vague aims. Translating promises into situational triggers narrows the chasm between said and done—and sets the stage for organizational application. [...]
