In one particular study, 2 groups of people had dieted and achieved successfull results in their bodyweights. One group of people was praised, and one was ignored as far as their results went.

They were then both offered either a chocolate bar or an apple. Within the first group, which was praised for their results, 85% opted for the chocolate bar. Within the second group, only 58% opted for the tasty reward. Praise plays a huge part in our decision making, even when we don’t particularly know it. The second group, who received no praise, felt as if they needed to work harder in order to get it.