Charles Duhigg, author of the new book “The Power of Habit” contends that patterns of daily routine can actually undermine what we consciously desire. Duhigg describes a “golden rule of habit change.” For example, if an old routine is laying on the couch, watching TV and eating chips, the new routine would tweak that pattern. Try leaving a pair of running shoes near the door. By substituting a new routine, the run, for the old habit of eating chips, you can still enjoy watching TV after exercising.
While we may consciously desire for example to eat a healthier breakfast, out of habit, we may still be reaching for the coffee cake. While willpower is important in our decision to have a better diet, this book suggests being mindful of the of our behavior patterns can also make a difference…..Time March 5, 2012 Annie Murphy Paul
