You want to eat better, study film, and train harder. But then… “right now” wins. The cookies on the counter, the video game after practice, the temptation to scroll on your phone instead of stretching. Impulsivity kills long-term goals. In this episode, Coach Pinkston shows you why willpower alone won’t save you—and how to outsmart your impulses by designing your environment. You’ll learn about temptation bundling, removing cues, and making the right choice the easy choice. Athletes succeed not because they’re robots with perfect discipline, but because they shape their surroundings for success. If “present you” keeps beating “future you,” this episode will give you the tools to flip the script. Stop losing to “right now”—and start setting yourself up for wins that last beyond the moment.

Today’s Action Step:

Step 1: Remove the Cue. Whatever tempts you most—sugar, screens, distractions—make it harder to access. Out of sight, out of reach, out of mind.

Step 2: Bundle Temptation. Pair something you want with something you should do. Only listen to your favorite playlist while lifting. Only watch your show while biking.

Step 3: Make Good the Default. Put the healthy snacks where you see them first. Put your workout clothes out before bed. Make the right choice the easy choice.

About Today Matters Today Matters is your 2–4 minute daily boost of motivation for athletes, parents, and coaches. Hosted by Coach Steve Pinkston, each episode delivers a simple mental performance strategy to help you win the day.

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