Trigger Strategy
What ‘The Control Heuristic’ means for design research
Apr 13, 2021
Delve into the fascinating interplay between emotion and decision-making, particularly in design research. Discover why procrastination often stems from negative emotional memories and how our brains defer tasks despite understanding their value. The discussion also highlights the power of intrinsic motivation over external rewards, using personal stories to illustrate engagement in learning. Learn about 'temptation bundling'—a clever strategy to make daunting tasks more appealing by pairing them with enjoyable activities, transforming challenges into growth opportunities.
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Quick takeaways
- The interplay between logical reasoning and emotional responses deeply influences procrastination, leading individuals to avoid tasks associated with negative feelings.
- Reshaping emotional associations with challenging tasks through positive experiences can enhance motivation and encourage proactive behavior.
Deep dives
Understanding the Control Heuristic
The Control Heuristic explores the dual nature of human action, emphasizing the interplay between logical reasoning and emotional responses. The prefrontal cortex represents rational thinking, generating potential actions based on environmental cues, while the basal ganglia serves as an emotional gatekeeper. This system evaluates the emotional outcomes of actions, often favoring immediate gratification, which can lead to impulsive decisions. For example, when presented with food, the prefrontal cortex recognizes the choice to eat, but the basal ganglia prioritizes the immediate satisfaction of hunger without weighing long-term consequences.
