Having a choice of means gears incomplete runners into more effective goal engagement: The effects of deliberative mindsets on the pursuit of identity goals.

When individuals committed to a certain long-term identity goal fall short of relevant activities, they experience the state of self-incompleteness. This motivational state leads them to prioritize the identity goal pursuit by engaging in self-symbolizing behaviours. The present research investigates whether inducing a deliberative mindset in incomplete individuals by offering a choice will lead to a stronger preference for more effective options.

Acting inconsistently with an important goal predicts compensatory health behaviors through regret.

Objective: This study explored affective mechanisms of compensatory health behaviors after acting inconsistently with an important goal. Specifically, we propose and test a model in which regret over being in a situation that inhibits goal pursuit lays at the root of an individual's engagement in compensatory behaviors such as avoiding fatty foods and sweets.

Methods: A total of 185 participants committed to being healthy took part in a longitudinal experiment (t-t).