Atomic Habits Chapter 2

The author wrote that in order to replace an old habit with the new one, we should make the reward tempting. Rewiring the brain with new neuroplasticity (The brain's ability to change its structure and function in response to experiences, learning, or injury.), is crucial as long as we recognize our old habits. Being mindful or current bad habits is the first step in changing our behaviour. 

This reminded me of another book I read “Psychology of Willpower" by Kelly McGonigal that presented an experiment in which someone trying to quit eating chocolate bars to leave more chocolate bars around the house, in drawers, tables and chairs. This creates an awareness for the person to be reminded of their goal and reduce consuming chocolate bars. 

The habit I would like to change and identity to adopt is that I am an athlete and a marketing startup founder. Decisions I have made included before purchasing another sneaker, I wondered if this would be an investment to both identities. Most of the time, they were not.

At networking events, I would be the promoter for my business, then conversation topics seemed more authentic and began to flow. I embraced the personality, responsibilities as a founder. Whereas before, I would say I am a freelancer working on different projects.

Thinking as a founder brings a broader perspective for my work, I am not just a specialist in my craft, I am also managing expenses, client expectations, negations, mediations, consulting, strategist. 

Mindful moment of the week:

The definition of meditation and mindfulness has been confusing me recently so I talked to a mentor on this topic. I discovered that I have been abusing my creativity and mindfulness to a point where it became paranoia. Over-analyzing every conversation, looking too deep into an action and getting lost in the sauce.

lost in the sauce (pic from Tenor)

So she clarified that mindfulness is being focused on one thing or an action. I can be mindful when I am writing, cooking and playing sports.

Meditation is focused on the breath, a practice of mindfulness. It is an act to regain focus, keep myself grounded and it could be done commuting, in the fields or in the room.

There should be no judgement in the act of mindfulness and meditation, simply observing, not engaging, not identifying me as the thought.

Hence, Sence said "We suffer more in imagination than in reality."

That was the Gong moment for me.

 I am still learning, I might be wrong, I am experimenting while documenting my journey. Thank you for reading and would love to know your thoughts!

Cheers, see you next time.

Damn, perhaps Im becoming Dwight.