Double the Episodes, Double the Insights! This week, Kurt and Tim are back at it, diving deeper into the world of habits, rituals, and routines. In this special double episode, they take us on a journey through the fascinating neuroscience of habit formation, unpacking how the basal ganglia in our brains can shape our behaviors—for better or worse (cue ominous music…).

The discussion moves beyond the basics, examining how our habitual actions can both enhance and sometimes limit our ability to fully experience life’s spontaneous pleasures. Kurt and Tim explore the delicate balance between the comfort of routine and the thrill of novelty, offering fresh perspectives on how to be more intentional about the habits we cultivate.

But it’s not all theory—this is Behavioral Grooves, after all! The hosts dish out practical strategies for breaking bad habits, like adding friction to disrupt automatic behaviors and swapping out old routines for new, more desirable ones. They also remind us that the road to healthy habits is paved with patience, self-compassion, and a steady focus on personal growth.

© 2024 Behavioral Grooves

[0:00] How we form good and bad habits

[5:09] Do habits and routines impact life's novelty?

[11:04] Breaking bad habits and creating new ones

[16:58] Habits, routines, and rituals for personal growth

© 2024 Behavioral Grooves

Habits: Why We do What We Do

James Clear: Habit Tracker

Brain/Shift Journal

Habits vs Routines

Ever wonder why some habits stick effortlessly while others feel impossible to maintain?

In this episode, Kurt and Tim explore the powerful forces of habits, routines, and rituals that shape our daily lives. They dig into what habits are, how they form, and why they're so hard to change. From understanding the role of cues and rewards to distinguishing between habits and routines, Kurt and Tim break down the science and strategies behind these everyday behaviors. They also discuss the importance of starting small, aligning habits with your values, and the often overlooked difference between habits and rituals.

Whether you're looking to kick an old habit or start a new one, this episode offers practical advice and thought-provoking insights. And stay tuned for part two, where they’ll tackle the tricky topic of ending unwanted habits!

[0:00] Welcome to a solo-sode with Kurt and Tim!

[4:17] Habits and routines: The nuance

[10:45] What differentiates a habit from a routine?

[17:19] Habits, routines, and rituals

[24:36] How to create motivation and achieve goals

[31:32] Creating new habits

[35:07] The key to consistency, grace, and personal growth

Charles Duhigg - The Power of Habit

Wendy Wood - Good Habits, Bad Habits

Brain/Shift Journal: Habits and Goals

“Here is a small fact: You are going to die.” – Markus Zusak, The Book Thief

This week, Kurt and Tim confront death. Well - they confront death and Jodi Wellman, author of “You Only Die Once” in a lively discussion on how we can use mortality as a motivator for living life to the fullest. Wellman bring an irreverent humor to the conversation, as well as inspiring insights on how we can prioritize joy and find meaning in our daily lives.

The trio dives into the heart of Wellman’s philosophy and explores the idea that life is about more than ticking off a to-do lists or sticking to routings. With a mix of anecdotes and insights, they explore how we can shake things up and be more intentional with our time. After all, we only have so many Mondays left to live!

In their grooving session, Kurt opens up about how a brush with death can remind us of life’s preciousness. As they wrap up, they emphasize how the power of gratitude and the importance of connecting with loved ones can help us do more than just breathe - but actually live. Whether it’s finding joy in the everyday or reaching out to someone you’ve lost touch with, the episode is a reminder that living fully means being present, purposeful and - at times - a little irreverent.

© 2024 Behavioral Grooves

[0:00] How often do you think about death?

[4:33] Introduction and speed round

[10:11] The importance of intentional living

[15:13] Identifying goals and prioritizing personal desires

[22:58] Breaking free from autopilot

[28:17] Near-death experiences

[38:00] Vitality, meaning, and well-being

[43:53] Finding meaning and purpose through self-reflections

[56:20] Confronting death and prioritizing life

© 2024 Behavioral Grooves

Why Some People Love Sad Music

You Only Die Once: How to Make It to the End with No Regrets

Four Thousand Mondays

Jason Isbell “If We Were Vampires”

Dave Matthews Band “Satellite”

The Cure “Friday I’m in Love”