Escape the Grind: Rediscover Joy with the Power of Dishabituation

We all fall victim to the comfort (and sometimes monotony) of routine. The morning alarm, the same breakfast, the familiar commute – it all feels safe and predictable.

But as French existentialist Gabriel Marcel warned, this "crispation," as he called it, can trap us in a cycle of stagnation. The world outside our routines fades away, and life loses its vibrancy.

Here's the good news: there's a way to break free.

Enter dishabituation, the act of consciously stepping outside our routines and rediscovering the joy in the everyday.

Dr. Tali Sharot, a neuroscientist and bestselling author, offers a two-step method to achieve this: breaking and changing.

Breaking the Habit

Sometimes, a simple break is all it takes to see things with fresh eyes. Imagine coming back from a business trip – suddenly, your home, your family, even the view from the window hold a new appreciation. This is the power of absence. Sharot highlights the same principle applies to activities like music – taking breaks while listening enhances the experience.

So, put down the phone, step away from your desk, and take a mindful break to truly appreciate the present moment.

Changing the Habit

For a more lasting impact, consider changing your routines. This could involve a simple shift in environment. Try working at a cafe or taking a different route to work. Changing habits sparks creativity, both in artistic pursuits and everyday problem-solving.

As Dr. Sharot points out, "If you've been with the same people or in the same place for a while, it becomes harder to see areas for improvement." A change of scenery or company can open your eyes to new possibilities.

The Explorer Mindset

Think of yourself as an explorer, not an exploiter. While good habits are essential, a life solely focused on "exploiting" the familiar can lead to a sense of ennui. Dr. Sharot points out that middle age often coincides with a dip in happiness. This could be because we've settled into routines – the same job, the same place, the same patterns.

Embrace the Discomfort

Breaking free from routine might feel uncomfortable at first. But by challenging ourselves, we open doors to new experiences, perspectives, and connections. Growth happens outside our comfort zones. Don't wait for a crisis to shake you up. Take the initiative to explore, to learn, and to keep your life dynamic.

Remember, life shouldn't be a monotonous routine. By embracing dishabituation, you can rediscover the spark and joy in the everyday. So, step outside your comfort zone, explore the world around you, and create a life filled with purpose and happiness.