Does the energy to achieve a goal diminish as the goal becomes closer?

The idea that the energy to achieve a goal diminishes as the goal becomes closer is grounded in the psychological concept known as the "goal gradient hypothesis." This hypothesis suggests that as individuals perceive themselves getting closer to a goal, their motivation or energy expended to reach that goal often decreases. This can happen because the desire for the goal may have already been fulfilled to some extent, leading to a decrease in urgency and effort.

Moreover, as one approaches the completion of a goal, there may be a tendency to relax or feel a sense of relief, which can lessen the intensity of the effort put forth. This phenomenon can be observed in various contexts, such as in academic pursuits, fitness goals, or project management, where individuals may start to ease up as they near the finish line.

In contrast, the other options present alternative views that do not align with this concept. For instance, increasing energy as one approaches a goal might suggest heightened motivation, which can occur in certain circumstances but does not reflect the common tendency observed in many scenarios. Variability among individuals can certainly influence energy levels, but the overarching pattern suggests a general trend of diminishing energy. Lastly, maintaining constant energy is less aligned with the fluctuation in motivation that people typically experience as they work toward