As we go through our daily lives, we tend to zone out in our routines.  How do we get to into these patterns and why do we do them?  In The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business, Charles Duhigg examines habits. How do they form? Why are some good? Why are some bad?

As a journalist, Duhigg became interested in this subject when he was reporting abroad and saw the military in action–the military are experts in forming habits for their soldiers to keep them safe.

Many fascinating scientific research case studies are covered in this book, concering how the brain works. One of the reasons why our brain develops habits and patterns is to simplify its processes: examining a day in your life, what you do when you first get up, how you brush your teeth, how you focus on getting work done, etc.. The processes are endless, but the pattern is simple–it is a habit loop. You receive a cue, do the routine, and then get a reward.  These habits are permanent and can be overruled.

Duhigg showcases how this power of habit affects our lives, the culture of an organization, and the mass market appeal for companies to create triggers for us to use their products. This book is excellent way to better understand how your brain works and take hold and not live a zombie existence.

Book Facts:

The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business by Charles Duhigg

2012 Random House 372 pp

ISBN: 978-1-4000-6928-6

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