The article explores the pervasive trend of streaks across various applications, from fitness to daily games. The author reflects on how these streaks foster a sense of accomplishment and commitment, using examples such as the mental rewards associated with maintaining a flossing streak and the awe-inspiring commitment of others like Nell McShane Wulfhart, who runs daily. This psychological impetus is reinforced by the economist's view that each new day improves the streak, while the fear of breaking it can serve as a potent motivator.
Each day that you add to your streak feels like a prize. An economist told Wulfhart, ‘Of course you want to continue — there’s so little in life that offers regular, guaranteed wins.’
Wulfhart discusses how loss aversion plays into maintaining a streak: The fear of losing it is stronger than the motivating power of just gaining another day.
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