I learned two things this week. The first was that doing anything new stimulates endorphins for the brain. The second was if I don’t stimulate my brain, I’m going to diminish my ability to produce endorphins. The double whammy became quite the motivator.

Doing something new changes the biochemistry in our brain. It can even loosen thoughts and beliefs that keep us stuck in old patterns and bring a sense of fresh air to our minds. The new experience or activity promotes growth and generates new connections. Our brain wants to be awakened with new sounds, sights and smells and it thanks us for the nutrients by bringing a better mood and often a clearer state of mind.

A habit on the other hand is something repeated until it becomes an unconscious behavior. Many habits are good, yet some are downright stifling. Worn patterns can suck the life right out of us and leave us feeling dull and deadened. A clear sign that it’s time to change it up.

Disrupt your own thinking this week with a new experience. Your brain cells will love you for it!

2 Comments

  1. melinda April 6, 2016 at 3:45 PM

    This is worth pondering but for now, I have problems with focus, procrastination, staying on task, distraction. Anything I can make habitual means fewer decisions, less energy & will power expended, and less chance for slip up. That works better for me at this point. Have you ever read the book “Better than Before” about habit-forming? It was life-changing for me.

  2. Marj Dworakowski April 6, 2016 at 10:40 PM

    Thanks for giving me something new to think about. Hope all is well with you. Marj

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