CEO of executive coaching firm Jody Michael Assoc. and author of Leading Lightly: Lower Your Stress, Think with Clarity and Lead with Ease recently shared insights on the importance of breaking out of routine to stay mentally stimulated and avoid falling into 'boring' habits.
Referencing TV writer Rob LaZebnik's quest to do 60 new things during his 60th year of life, the article highlights the benefits of putting oneself in new situations to spark excitement and curiosity. LaZebnik's experiences, ranging from attending a mega church to a gay bar, exemplify the impact of stepping out of one's comfort zone.
The article draws parallels between the sensory stimulation experienced during vacations and the rejuvenating effect of breaking routine in daily life. It emphasizes the temporary escape from everyday burdens that vacations provide and the resulting lightness in mindset.
Neuroscience research is cited to support the idea that trying new activities creates different pathways in the brain, leading to increased stimulation and a sense of aliveness. The article suggests that as individuals age, they may become less adventurous, contributing to the development of monotonous habits.
To combat this tendency, the article proposes the concept of creating 'mini vacations for your brain' by intentionally changing daily routines. Examples include altering morning rituals, taking different routes, and trying new activities to introduce novelty and stimulate the mind.
By encouraging readers to adopt a mindset of curiosity and openness to new experiences, the article underscores the value of self-transformation for personal growth. Business leaders, in particular, are advised to embrace change as a means of fostering innovation, problem-solving skills, and adaptability.
The article concludes with a call to action for individuals to proactively seek out new experiences and challenge themselves to break away from routine. By approaching life with a sense of curiosity and openness, one can inject excitement and vitality into daily living, ultimately avoiding the trap of 'boring' habits.
