Freakonomics Radio Are You Ready for a Fresh Start? (Ep. 455 Replay)
Feb 3, 2022
Katie Milkman, a behavioral scientist at the Wharton School and author of "How to Change," explores the dynamics of fresh starts. She discusses how the pandemic might offer the largest reset in history. Topics include the psychology behind New Year's resolutions, accidental and forced fresh starts, and how habits can be transformed through disruptions. Milkman highlights the complexities of achieving personal goals and the power of flexibility in routines, providing insights that inspire listeners to embrace change.
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Fresh Start Effect
- Fresh starts like New Year's, birthdays, or new jobs offer a sense of a new beginning.
- They prompt reflection on life goals, offering a chance to break from the past.
The Desire for Change
- People desire change, evidenced by New Year's resolutions, yet struggle with follow-through.
- Studies on resolution success rates vary widely, highlighting the complexity of behavior change.
Fresh Start and Savings
- Katie Milkman's team tested the fresh start effect by prompting retirement savings around birthdays.
- Birthdays and the start of spring proved effective, while New Year's and placebo dates didn't.
