Recently I spoke with David Rock who is the co-founder and CEO of the NeuroLeadership Institute (NLI). Our discussion began focusing on virtual learning and during the conversation we went on a tangent that was extremely insightful to me.
Brain research shows that to effectively change behavior you need to develop habits in the desired behavior. Habits don’t just form but require we take action to form those habits. You and I both know, it isn’t easy to form new habits – the research states insight, or an “ah-ha” moment that sticks with you is what is required to motivate you to take action. Insights aren’t easy to come by but the brain is wired for stories and receives and understands them well. More simply put stories can generate insights which motivate us to action which, when done over time, forms a habit.
Habit formation research isn’t new but the simplicity of the neuroscience of this approach resonated deeply with me.
This pattern worked on me, I caught hold of the story of the pattern, this story provided me with an insight and I acted on it by recording my insight here. It will take time for me to practice the art of telling and forming stories to generate insights. I’m looking forward to watching my progress.
How has this pattern worked on you? I’d love to hear about it.
