As we get physically or psychologically closer to a goal, the attraction (approach) gets stronger, yet so does the urge to flee (avoidance). This is one of the most common blocks wishers face. Psychologists Kurt Lewin and Neal Miller called this approach-avoidance conflict, and it’s why so many people stall just before they reach the finish line. This explains why the excitement when you start is so grandiose yet tapers when “stuff gets real.” The solution: either lower the risk or amplify the reward. And remember: others around you are the heroes of their own story, so they might be dealing with the same internal conflict. Want to see your own seesaw? Graph where you are below.