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How the Sunk Cost Fallacy Traps You in a Bad Job
Description
In the 150th episode of The Office Politics Podcast, Lucas and Luna explore why we stay in jobs we've outgrown, through the lens of the sunk cost fallacy. Using the story of a mid-career accountant who turned down a better offer because of the years he'd already invested, they break down how our brains overvalue past effort and how that distorts career decisions. They discuss practical strategies for recognizing when loyalty to your own history is costing you your future, from reframing the 'investment' question to setting decision criteria before you're in the moment. The hosts also reflect on why the sunk cost fallacy is especially sticky in careers, where time feels like the one resource you can't get back. If you've ever stayed in a role out of inertia rather than enthusiasm, this episode offers a clear-headed way to think about walking away. No cheerleading for quitting — just a realistic look at the psychology that keeps us stuck, and how to spot the difference between commitment and a trap.