Coburn Ventures Podcast #20 Matt Wallaert: “Identity and Behavior Change”
Sep 24, 2020
Matt Wallaert, a social psychologist and author of "Start at the End," dives into the profound impact of identity on behavior change. He discusses how understanding our identities can enhance decision-making and personal growth. Wallaert introduces cognitive dissonance, illustrating how conflicting beliefs can shift perceptions. He emphasizes the importance of embracing diverse identities and perspectives, particularly in the finance sector, to foster resilience and improve teamwork. His insights highlight the transformative power of identity in shaping our experiences.
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Identity as Cognitive Energy Saver
- Identity exerts strong cognitive pressure by shaping selective attention and confirmation bias.
- The brain conserves energy by stabilizing identities, avoiding constant decision remaking.
Change Identity Through Behavior
- Change identity by freely choosing new behaviors to trigger cognitive dissonance and belief shifts.
- Use multiple identities fluidly to align actions with desired decisions and perspectives.
Golf Loss Due to Identity Trap
- At the last hole in a golf tournament, Pride in identity led to risky play and a loss.
- Being trapped by identity can impair decision making even when safer options exist.