The Next Season Podcast
Kevin Kuhn
031 - People Don't Do Dumb Stuff on Purpose (pt 2 of 2)
Episode Notes
In Episode 030, I hit you with 6 reasons that the "dumb" mistakes you see may not be on purpose - and they fell in the No Choice Bucket. If you missed it, go back and listen first.
Now in Part 2, we go even deeper with 10 more brain-based, logic-driven reasons people make choices that look dumb but actually make perfect sense to them in the moment.
From processing speed under pressure to emotional hijacking, habit loops, fear of judgment and outdated mental models, we break down the hidden forces that drive behavior, choices and performance — and why these moments almost never come from laziness, disrespect or lack of care.
Backed by sports neuroscience, real coaching stories, and practical tools, this episode will help coaches, parents, and players swap judgment for understanding, build trust faster, and create performance environments where athletes can thrive.
Plus at the end, I give you some tactical advice on what you can do different and 3 book recommendations that may just change your life.
00:00 Intro & the No Choice Bucket
00:54 What About When They Do Have a Choice?
01:47 Reason 1: They Don't Know Why They Should Do It
05:11 Reason 2: They Think They're Way is Better
06:43 Reason 3: They Think Something Else is More Important
07:47 Reason 4: There's No Perceived Positive Outcome for Doing It
09:01 Reason 5: There's a Perceived Negative Consequence for Doing It
10:15 Reason 6: There's a Perceived Positive Outcome for Not Doing It
12:45 Reason 7: There's No Negative Consequence for Not Doing it
13:40 Reason 8: They're Dealing with Hard Personal Stuff
15:08 Reason 9: They're Afraid of […]
17:18 Reason 10: You're Wrong
19:43 Recapping the Two Buckets: No Choice & Logical Reasons
20:22 Two Tactical Steps to Help You Handle These Situations
21:41 Three Book Recommendations
23:57 Don't Be Dumb - Hit Me Up to Talk
Book Recommendations (I don't make any money or commission from these links, just sharing books that have helped me, and maybe you'll like them too):