Slip once, and neural pathways weaken. Your brain learns that exceptions are fine, so future temptations hit less resistance. I call this “Exception Creep Threshold” It’s the invisible line where one-time allowances metastasize into new normals. Cross it casually (“just this once”), and you train akrasia: knowing better but doing worse anyway. Habits form via repetition, and each waiver lowers your internal bar. Say your threshold is 3% slippage per month on a standard like “no junk food.” Exceed it, and by year’s end, you’re not slipping, you’re the new you, 36% compromised. So raise your standards. Your future self, thriving amid the chaos others endure, will thank you.