Dr. Jon Finn: Using habits to supercharge your game
Nov 27, 2023
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Dr. Jon Finn, author of 'The Habit Mechanic' and founder of Tougher Minds consultancy, discusses the challenges of habit formation in a rapidly changing world, how to build positive habits using the nine action factor model, the value of selective advice and emotional support in tennis, understanding and harnessing external triggers, and teaching optimal tactics in tennis.
Identifying and targeting specific areas for improvement through self-watching and reflecting on behavior is crucial for building positive habits.
Utilizing super habits, such as completing a daily T-plan and using habit metrics, can activate and enforce multiple beneficial habits, leading to lasting positive change.
Deep dives
Importance of Habits and Autopilot Behavior
Our brains are wired to run on autopilot, relying heavily on habitual processes. Most of what we do and think is driven by habits, which are created through repetition and practice. Habits are not just physical actions, but also include how we think and perceive the world. The key insight is that knowing what to do does not always lead to actually doing it; our actions are more influenced by our ingrained habits. Understanding the power of habits can help athletes, like tennis players, optimize their performance and make positive changes in their behavior.
Challenges in Creating Positive Habits
In today's fast-paced and ever-changing world, it is easier than ever to fall into negative or unproductive habits. The constant influx of information, the influence of social media, and the rapid changes in our daily lives make it challenging to cultivate positive habits. The key is recognizing that the only constant is change and that our brains are not naturally equipped to handle the volume of change we face. These factors can make it harder to prioritize and focus on beneficial habits related to physical and mental well-being, such as proper nutrition, sleep, and exercise.
Steps to Building Positive Habits
Building positive habits requires a conscious effort. To begin, individuals must engage in intelligent self-watching and reflective practices. This involves regularly evaluating their own behavior, identifying habits that hinder their performance, and understanding the underlying factors influencing those habits. Once aware, individuals can target one specific area for improvement and develop a habit-building plan. This plan should leverage insights from the nine action factor model, which includes elements such as mindset, motivation, community support, and external triggers. By employing this three-step process of self-watching, targeted improvement, and habit-building planning, individuals can gradually create positive change.
The Power of Super Habits and Habit Metrics
Super habits, which activate numerous other helpful habits, are instrumental in driving positive change. One vital super habit recommended is the practice of completing a daily T-plan. This plan involves reflecting on one's performance each day, identifying one small and meaningful action to improve, and understanding the benefits of implementing that action. Additionally, using habit metrics, such as those provided by the Habit Mechanic app, can aid in analyzing and monitoring habits over time. By consistently practicing self-awareness, intelligent planning, and leveraging super habits, individuals can optimize their performance and create lasting positive change.
Dr. Jon Finn is our guest for the 51st episode of Baseline Intelligence. Dr. Finn is the author of the best-selling book "The Habit Mechanic" and is the founder of the award-winning Tougher Minds consultancy.
We talk:
1:39 Why knowing doesn't lead to doing
4:54 The VUCA world
7:06 How to build positive habits
9:21 The nine factors that shape your behavior
18:16 Taking advice from other players
21:48 Triggers in a tennis match
25:18 Using court locations as a trigger
26:58 The best habit you can have as a tennis coach
29:11 How long it takes to form a new habit
Here's a link to Dr. Finn's book "The Habit Mechanic"