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Edgar Benitez, CSCS, Director

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January 1, 2024

Habit Formation: Beyond Instinct

Habits – A Modern Superpower

Think about this: the way we form habits today is totally different from how our ancestors did. Back then, it was about survival. Today, it's about choice and improvement. That's a big deal, and here's why.

Reworking Your Habits: Modern Strategies

Just Stop: Quick and Bold

Want to change fast? Try stopping something all at once, like deleting those apps that keep you glued to your phone. It's tough but can free up time for better things, like hobbies or exercise.

Bit by Bit: Gradual Changes

If stopping cold turkey isn't your thing, reduce gradually. Watch less TV each night or slowly swap unhealthy snacks for fruits or veggies.

Trade Up: Smart Substitutions

Swap a not-so-great habit for a better one. Replace frequent coffee breaks with quick walks or replace idle screen time with something active or creative.

Habit Formation: Then and Now

Ancient Instincts vs. Modern Choices

Our ancestors' habits were all about immediate needs – finding food, staying safe. Today, we're not just focused on survival. We have the freedom to develop habits that benefit us in the long run, like regular exercise or smart eating. It's a shift from instant needs to future goals.

Expanding on Our Modern Habit PrivilegeIn our world, we can choose habits that match our long-term aspirations. We're not limited by the urgent need to find food or shelter. We can decide to work out for future health, learn new skills for career growth, or practice mindfulness for long-term mental well-being. This freedom to choose is a modern luxury.

Mimicking Our Ancestors' Urgency – But with a TwistTo make new habits stick, try these steps:

  1. Set Clear Deadlines: Add a sense of urgency to your goals, like our ancestors had when hunting or gathering.
  2. Create a Sense of Scarcity: Limit resources or time for tasks to heighten focus and drive.
  3. Enjoy Immediate Rewards: Treat yourself after achieving small goals, echoing the instant rewards of ancient times.

Starting Your Habit Journey Today

Creating a Supportive Environment

Make your space a hub for good habits. Place workout gear in sight, keep healthy snacks handy, and set reminders for new habits.

Start Small, Achieve Big

Begin with small steps – a morning stretch, a page of reading, or a short walk. These small actions build into significant changes.

Embracing Our Modern Habit-Shaping Power

Today, we've got the power to shape our future with our habits, something our ancestors could only dream of. By using modern strategies to make and break habits, we can create a life that's healthier, happier, and more fulfilling. At our gym, we're all about embracing this journey together, using our unique ability to choose our habits to pave the way to a better future.

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