Stuck in a Rut? It Might Be Your Environment, Not You!

 

 

Have you ever had one of those days where you enthusiastically set out to do something new and awesome, but a few weeks in, you find yourself falling back into old patterns? 🤔 Maybe you tried morning jogs, but soon your sneakers were just gathering dust. Or perhaps you vowed to write a weekly blog, only to face the daunting blank screen week after week.

 

I've been there too. I used to believe that these "failures" were a direct reflection of my lack of discipline or willpower. But what if I told you that's not the case? What if it's not YOU, but your environment?

 

Enter BJ Fogg's Game-Changing Perspective 📘

 

In his insightful book "Tiny Habits: The Small Changes That Change Everything," BJ Fogg sheds light on a transformative concept. He proposes that when we struggle or fail to adopt a new behavior, it's often not due to a character flaw but rather a design flaw in our environment.

 

Think about it. If you’re aiming to start an exercise routine but your gym is miles away, or your workout clothes are buried at the back of your closet, aren't those environmental obstacles making it harder for you?

 

The big takeaway? Don't beat yourself up! Instead, focus on redesigning your surroundings to set yourself up for success.

 

Setting Up Your Environment for Success: BJ Fogg's Way 🌟

 

Alright, now that we understand the importance of our environment, how exactly do we shape it to encourage the positive behaviors and habits we desire?

 

1. Start with Tiny Actions 🌱

Fogg's methodology doesn’t ask you to make big, monumental changes from day one. Instead, he champions the idea of starting small. For example, if you aim to build a reading habit, start with just one page a day. As it becomes routine, gradually up the ante.

 

2. Identify and Optimize Your Triggers 🔔

Triggers are cues that prompt us to take action. Fogg emphasizes anchoring new tiny habits to existing routines. If you want to stretch every morning, an effective trigger could be your morning cup of coffee. After you finish your coffee, it's stretching time!

 

3. Make Desired Actions Easy and Undesired Actions Hard 🚀

Set up your environment to minimize friction for the habits you want and increase it for those you don't. Want to eat more fruits? Keep a fruit bowl on your dining table or desk. Trying to cut down on junk food? Store it out of easy reach or don't buy it at all.

 

4. Celebrate Small Wins 🎉

Fogg emphasizes the importance of celebrating when you complete a task. It could be as simple as giving yourself a high-five or whispering, “I did it!”

 

5. Modify and Iterate 🔄

Everyone is unique. What works as a trigger for one might not for another. Fogg’s method is about flexibility. Adjust and be patient in finding what works best for you.

 

Let's Get Reflective 🤔✨

 

Reflect on a recent behavior you've wanted to adopt. Whether it's actively listening, hitting the gym, or writing that weekly blog, consider: what environmental obstacles stand in your way?

 

Your Step-by-Step Plan to an Optimized Environment 🛠️:

 

• Identify the Behavior - e.g., working out thrice a week.

• Spot the Obstacles - List what makes this behavior challenging. Is the gym too far? Too much noise when you write?

• Design Solutions - Maybe bring your workouts home or find a quiet corner for writing. Small tweaks can lead to big changes.

• Prepare What You Need - Ensure all you require is at arm's reach. Lay out your workout gear the night before or create a dedicated writing space.

• Commit & Schedule - Decide on specific days and times. Mark them in your calendar. 📅

• Accountability Partner - Share your goals with someone who can provide motivation and keep you on track.

• Celebrate the Small Wins - Give yourself a pat on the back every time you stick to your behavior. 🎉

 

In Conclusion...

 

It's easy to think the secret to new behaviors is just willpower. But remember, we're all humans navigating through our unique environments. If you find yourself struggling, ask, "How can I tweak my environment to make this easier?"

 

You have the power, the insight, and now the tools to shape your surroundings for success. Until next time, always remember: you’re not the problem. You just need the right playground. Here's to designing an environment where you can shine and thrive! 💪✨

 

Connect With Me! I'd love to hear any new insights or thoughts you've gained from this post. If something resonated or you'd like to share your own experience, don't hesitate to reach out! You can email me or DM me on LinkedIn. 

 

Keep shining and evolving! ✨
Lori

 

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