Motley Fool Money The Power of Habit with Charles Duhigg
Feb 18, 2020
Discover how routines evolve into habits and the role of rewards in this fascinating discussion. Charles Duhigg reveals the surprising history of tooth brushing and how clever marketing turned it into a daily necessity. Uncover the hidden cues that drive our behaviors and learn how they shape our lives. This exploration of habit formation offers insights into both personal well-being and public health.
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Toothbrushing History
- Few people brushed their teeth regularly a century ago; it was a status symbol.
- The military considered poor dental hygiene a national security risk during World War I.
Claude C. Hopkins and Pepsodent
- Marketer Claude C. Hopkins transformed toothbrushing habits by creating a cue (film on teeth), routine (brushing), and reward (tingling gums).
- This strategy revolutionized toothpaste sales and ingrained daily brushing habits.
The Habit Loop
- Habits consist of a cue, a routine, and a reward.
- Toothpaste companies still add tingling chemicals unrelated to cleaning for the reward aspect.
