Let's Talk About Habits: Simple Ways to Make and Break Them
Hey there!
So, have you ever wondered why we do things the way we do?
Well, a big part of it is because of habits.
These are the things we do automatically, like brushing our teeth or making a cup of espresso every morning.
Did you know that up to 70% of what we do every day is because of habits?
Yep, it's true!
Now, here's the cool part.
If you find it hard to make one habit, don't worry.
It doesn't mean you can't make others easily.
Let's chat about some fun science stuff and see how we can use it to understand habits better.
Making Habits Stick: The Movie in Your Mind
Okay, imagine your brain is like a super-smart friend that helps you remember how to do things.
We call this part of the brain procedural memory.
It's like having a secret recipe book for cool activities.
Now, to make a new habit, all you need to do is create a little movie in your mind.
Let's say you want to make a cup of espresso every morning.
Think about each step, like walking to the kitchen, turning on the espresso machine, and pouring that delicious coffee.
Just by picturing it in your head, you're training your brain to do it more often.
It's like magic!
Superpower Alert: Task Bracketing
Now, get ready for a super cool tool called task bracketing. Imagine your brain has special circuits – we call them the basal ganglia – that act like superhero powers.
They help you start and stop habits. Think of it as your brain's way of creating a guide for learning new things or stopping old habits.
Let's say you want to exercise every day.
Task bracketing helps you think about the moments before and after exercising.
Picture yourself getting ready, feeling awesome during your exercise, and being proud after finishing.
This makes your brain remember the habit better, even if things are a bit tricky that day.
It's like having a coach for your brain!
Habits Made Simple: Lights, Camera, Action!
Making habits is like creating a special movie in your head. You think about each step, imagine how cool it'll be, and voila – you're on your way to a new habit.
And don't forget our superhero friend, task bracketing.
It's like a guide for your brain, making sure you remember your habits like a pro.
Now, here's the fun part – you're the boss of your habits! Whether it's making a cup of espresso, going for a run, or trying something new, you get to decide what's cool and important for you.
So, go ahead, try making a new habit or say goodbye to an old one. You've totally got this!
Let's Recap the Movie Magic
1. Create Your Movie: Imagine each step of your new habit like scenes in a movie. Picture it in your mind, and your brain will catch on.
2. Superhero Guide – Task Bracketing: Think about the moments before and after your habit. It's like creating a guide for your brain, making sure you remember your habits even when life gets a bit crazy.
3. You're the Boss: Remember, you're in charge. Whether it's a small habit like making your bed or a big one like learning a new skill, you call the shots.
So, go ahead, be the director of your own habit movie! Lights, camera, action – it's time to make those habits shine.