Radical Candor: Communication at Work Habit or Ritual: What's Driving Your Day? 7 | 30
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Jul 23, 2025 
Michael Norton, a Harvard Business School professor and author of The Ritual Effect, joins the conversation to explore the power of everyday rituals. He shares insights on how small acts—like a coffee run or tapping a lucky pen—can enhance team bonding and reduce stress. Norton discusses the difference between habits and rituals, revealing how silly routines can boost morale and create a sense of connection in remote work environments. Tune in for a refreshing take on finding meaning and joy through simple, shared practices.
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Wood Knocking Rituals Vary
- People knock on wood two or three times to avoid tempting fate, though no one knows exactly why.
- These simple rituals carry strong emotions and show how rituals manage feelings in everyday life.
Bedtime Routine Becomes Ritual
- Michael Norton and his wife developed a 19-step bedtime routine for their daughter without initially calling it a ritual.
- They used this ritualistic routine to manage stress and feel some control during a challenging time.
Habits vs. Rituals Defined
- Habits are routine actions without much emotion, while rituals carry emotional significance.
- If you care about the order or manner of a routine, it's likely a ritual rather than just a habit.
