Sober Synthesis

What is the difference between habits, routines, and rituals?

• Habits are the most subconscious acts we make, done unconsciously and often triggered by a particular cue.
  • Habits develop due to the brain’s need to conserve energy.
  • It takes 18 to 254 days for a person to form a new habit. 
• Routines are done consciously and require deliberate effort to complete tasks efficiently.
• Rituals are highly intentional actions that we follow for a meaningful purpose.
  • With rituals, one is fully engaged with a focus on the experience/process of the task, rather than the outcome/completion.

Habit Development

1. Cue: choose a trigger to tell your brain to start the behavior you want to turn into a habit.
2. Routine: execute the routine, ideally starting with a small, actionable chunk. Try to avoid starting with an overly ambitious new routine.
3. Reward: do something enjoyable, which will tell your brain that this particular habit loop is worth remembering for the future.

Important Note: The hardest part is to execute the routine right after the cue.

Ritual Development

Important Note: Applying mindfulness to daily routines is a great way to create rituals for yourself.

  Proposed question for thought/sharing:

1. How have changes in your habits, routines, and/or rituals supported your recovery/health and wellness?  What habits, routines, and/or rituals have been the most powerful and/or healing? 

Disclaimer

This summary is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed.