Stanford behaviour change expert, BJ Fogg, on how he decides which habits to form in his own life and how he makes them stick.
Feb 19, 2020
auto_awesome
Stanford behaviour change expert, BJ Fogg, discusses his strategies for making habits stick, including the Tiny Habits method and optimizing work environments for productivity. He also shares insights on maximizing iPad use, innovative teaching strategies, and embracing authenticity and vulnerability.
Emotions play a crucial role in making habits automatic, successful feelings wire habits.
Breaking down habits into smaller actions and celebrating after completion reinforces habit formation.
Deep dives
Habit Formation and Emotions
Contrary to popular belief, habits are not solely formed through repetition. The emotion experienced during behavior plays a crucial role in making habits automatic. Successful feelings wire habits, making behaviors more automatic, according to Dr. BJ Fogg's insights.
Tiny Habits Method
Dr. BJ Fogg introduces the Tiny Habits method, where habits are broken down into smaller, manageable actions. By simplifying habits to tiny versions and linking them to existing routines, individuals can effortlessly integrate new habits into their lives. Using a technique called celebration after completing a behavior reinforces its success, signaling the brain to wire it as a habit.
Creating New Habits and Instant Habits
Dr. BJ Fogg debunks the myth that habit formation requires a set number of days of repetition. Emotions associated with behaviors, particularly positive feelings of success, are the true drivers of habit formation. By generating positive emotions intentionally, individuals can create 'instant habits' through feeling successful and associating specific behaviors with positive outcomes.
Optimizing Workday and Productivity
In crafting a productive work environment, Dr. BJ Fogg emphasizes the use of grounding mats, natural light, and ergonomic setups to enhance focus and well-being. Prioritizing tasks with a color-coded system, using timers for productivity, and staying flexible in curriculum design contribute to an efficient workflow. Dr. Fogg's authenticity and emphasis on empathy and vulnerability in educational settings inspire effective teaching strategies.
If you are looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a short monthly newsletter that contains three cool things that I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.co