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Commitment Devices For Creating Lasting Change | Katy Milkman

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Jun 19, 2024

Guest

Katy Milkman

Katy Milkman, a behavioral scientist and Wharton professor, dives into effective strategies for lasting personal change. She discusses commitment devices inspired by The Odyssey and the importance of understanding empathy gaps in life satisfaction. Katy also highlights how modern tools like audiobooks can enhance learning and accessibility. Additionally, they explore the journey to happiness, emphasizing that fulfillment comes from appreciating the process and sharing stories, especially with children.

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ANECDOTE

Odysseus and the Sirens

Odysseus used a commitment device to resist the Sirens' deadly song.
He had his crew tie him to the mast, preventing him from steering the ship toward the rocks.

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INSIGHT

Knowledge vs. Action

Knowledge alone isn't enough for change, as Odysseus knew the sirens were dangerous but needed a commitment device.
Commitment devices bridge the gap between knowledge and action, addressing our inability to resist temptation.

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ADVICE

Tools for Lasting Change

Don't view behavior change tools as temporary training wheels.
Recognize that these tools, like temptation bundling, are permanent supports needed for lasting change.

Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode

Exploring Change Through Stoicism and Commitment Devices

04:05 • 3min

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Literary Connections and Personal Growth

07:21 • 17min

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The Evolution of Learning Tools and Quality Assurance in Supplements

24:05 • 3min

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Embracing Change: Audiobooks and Behavior Strategies

27:19 • 17min

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Understanding Empathy Gaps in Life Satisfaction

44:22 • 5min

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The Journey to Lasting Happiness

48:53 • 15min

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The Joys of Sharing Stories with Children

01:03:49 • 2min

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The Odyssey, attributed to Homer, is an ancient Greek epic poem that tells the story of Odysseus, king of Ithaca, and his ten-year journey home after the Trojan War. The poem explores Odysseus's encounters with various mythical creatures, divine interventions, and natural challenges. Upon his return to Ithaca, he must confront the suitors who have been vying for his wife Penelope's hand in marriage. With the help of his son Telemachus and the goddess Athena, Odysseus devises a plan to defeat the suitors and reclaim his throne. The poem is a reflection on human nature, loyalty, and the consequences of one's actions, and it remains a crucial component of ancient Greek literature and Western cultural heritage.

How can we make real, lasting changes in our lives? Katy Milkman talks with Ryan about strategic methods we can use to overcome barriers to change, examples we can learn from The Odyssey, powerful commitment devices, empathy gaps, and more.

Katy Milkman is a Behavioral Scientist, Wharton Professor, and Co-Director of the Behavior Change for Good Initiative. She is the Author of How to Change and podcast host of Choicology.

You can connect with Katy on X: @katy_milkman and on Instagram: @katymilkman

📕 Right Thing, Right Now is out now! To purchase your own copy, head here

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