The Power of Habit
Charles Duhigg explains how to shape our habits in his new book The Power of Habit. In the videos and infographic below he breaks down the general components of what makes a habit: Cue, Routine, and Reward.
In addition to understanding how to control, change, or break your habits, it’s important to also note some key aspects that surround the habit cycle: Social Support and Deeply Held Beliefs. Oftentimes, the habits we create or break are held together by a very strict routine, only to fall apart when the routine is changed (like going on vacation or being in an immensely stressful situation). What Duhigg and other behavior scientists have found is that it is easier to adapt our healthy habits when they are supported by a community (circle of friends, family, online social group, co-workers, etc.) and when they are supported by a deeply held belief (something that gives your habit and emotional response and a greater meaning like religion or having a sick friend/family member).
This is why the worksheets Paul created and the social structure of the Ballarat Wellness Program are so useful. We are able to break our habits down into small components to study, while at the same time understanding why they are so important to us and how these habits fit into our core belief system/emotional responses.
Please click enlarge this graphic.
Related Posts (that will help you understand your Cue, Routine, and Reward):
This book was really good to get some insight as to why I need a consistent ‘cue’ to keep me on track for my wellness goal – mine is the gym bag near front door!!
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