You're not trapped. You're stubborn.

Hey guys,

Today I wanted to talk about something that’s been mentioned to me twice in the past week.

In two completely unrelated conversations. By two completely different people.

And it’s The Sunk Cost Fallacy.

Which is all about being trapped in unproductive situations.

Situations where we’ve already put so much effort into that we think -“Well, I can’t quit now. Otherwise, I’ve wasted all this time and energy!”

Unfortunately, by ignoring the warning signs and new information, you end up wasting more time, more money, and more energy on something you should have walked away from.

Over these past few weeks, this has become very prevalent to me as I reminisce on the progress and work I’ve done over the past 7 or so months.

I even touched on this in a newsletter a couple of weeks ago…

Writing how I couldn’t change paths now because I had already come so far…

But as new information comes to light, it’d be foolish not to consider the alternatives.

Especially when a fallacy I’d never heard of is brought up twice in one week - it may be time to pay attention.

So here’s the truth, there’s been a feeling in my gut as of late regarding my journey. I can’t put my finger on it, but something just feels off.

And it’s not that I plan to quit writing - I love writing - but it may mean looking at different avenues and ways that I could use it to create a more fulfilling, enjoyable life for myself.

For example:

Instead of helping others grow their business
↳ I could focus on my own content.

Or Instead of writing for SaaS businesses
↳ I could write for travel companies.

Or Instead of LinkedIn posts
↳ I could restart my blog.

As of right now, I don’t have the answer. It’s simply a time of reflection and recognizing that things don’t feel right.

But the funniest part about all of this stress is how I’m just coming to the realization that it doesn’t matter.

Most people don’t know, or care, about what you’re doing with your life.

And if you’re worried that people will judge you for “wasting” a certain amount of time… It’s bullshit.

Almost no one will even notice.

Think about it like this:

Some people spend 12 years in medical school just to move out to the mountains and live off the land.

Whereas others know they hate their job within the first few months and end up working there for the next 30 years…

Which sounds worse?

Unfortunately, this cognitive bias of sticking with a prior decision can lead to even worse decisions in the future.

And sometimes it’s not only okay for you to quit and change paths - it’s the better choice.

So how can you tell if you’re trapped in this sunk cost fallacy?

• You keep investing in a failing project.

• You stay in an unfulfilling relationship.

• You continue a hobby you don’t enjoy.

Recognizing these signs for yourself is crucial because only you can decide what is best for you and your life…

However, once you’ve recognized these patterns, how can you break free?

• Forget about the costs already sunk.

• Make decisions based on current facts.

• Prioritize rational thought over emotions.

• Focus on future benefits, not past investments.

By understanding and avoiding the sunk cost fallacy, you can make better decisions.

Opening up new opportunities and leading to a more fulfilling life.

Remember, the past is a lesson, not a life sentence.

And change is one of life’s only constants.

So, don’t be afraid of walking away.

Only you know what’s best for you.

Until next week,

Your friend from the wilderness,

Michael “Make The U-Turn“ Mitchell