Every action you’ve ever taken and every goal you’ve ever set were driven by an expected emotional payoff. We convince ourselves that we want more money, better relationships, improved health, or greater success—but these aren't the true desires. What we truly crave are the emotions we believe these things will bring us.

Eight years ago, I weighed 300 pounds. I was stuck in a career I despised. My marriage was toxic and volatile. I felt like everything in my life was falling apart, and I was constantly on edge. I took action relentlessly—always on the go, always moving, always worried, frustrated, and angry.