We’re not lazy, we’re wired this way

A lot of us assume that if we can't get more done, we're the problem. We aren't optimising or prioritising, or focusing on effectiveness or efficiency enough. If only we could colour-code our Outlook a bit better. Or, just read one more book on "doing more with less." Or, habit stack or hack our sleep hygiene or whatever we're supposed to be doing now. 

Team, before we start assuming we're the problem, let's take a look at our environment. In many ways, the cards are stacked against us. Much of our Western world is set up to take as much of our

• energy, 

• time, 

• attention,

• and money 

  
  

away from us as possible. And then we feel frustrated by the (individual responsibility) tools we've learned that aren't making as big an impact as we had hoped. This is why Nicklas Brendborg's book Super Stimulated: How Our Biology is Being Manipulated to Create Bad Habits - and What We Can Do About It is such a great read. 

We don't have a great deal of control over the society in which we live, which is full of what Brendborg calls superstimuli: behaviours, objects and social cues that are exaggerated, unnatural versions of things we have evolved to want and need. Look, personal responsibility still matters. It's not as if the algorithms on social media are the ONLY reason you're not as focused on your emails as you could be. But it IS important to look around and realise that, yes, even at work, there is a lot going on that does not help us focus, prioritise, and lead the best lives we could. 

So, Nicklas, what can we actually do?! There are some great ideas he offers, like

1. Let's start with awareness and recognition that our human biology and impulses are often working against us when. Yes we should be going to bed right now, but we're competing with the siren call of Netflix and their monster algorithm designed to keep us tuned in.

2. Maybe a biology-based habit intervention could be useful. Instead of fighting against your scrolling, can you turn your screen to greyscale to make it less visually exciting?

3. What about trading your low-return habits for upgraded ones? If you're addicted to gaming, can you change to an app that gamifies a habit you want to build, like exercise?

The book is a fascinating read, even if you don't leave feeling equipped to break every bad habit you have and get everything on your to-do list done. But there's a lot of valuable info and tips. I'd be keen to hear your thoughts if you pick the book up - especially on the chapters involving food and sex. 🤣