Why is it so hard to change or break habits

by Robert Fahey

A habit is a system that we store like a software programme that we switch on in an emergency or to allow us to concentrate on something else whilst completing a task. If you drive you will will remember when it was very difficult learning to drive to remember all the things you need to remember. Then as the procedures become automatic you no longer think about it.

Where do we store habits? Habits and autopilot responses are stored on the cerebellum, at the back of the brain. The control centre to fire off these habits is in the reptile brain at the top of the brain stem. It is called the reptile brain because that is exactly what it looks like, a reptiles brian. Our evolution has been through 5 distinct steps as each part of the brain has evolved and advanced these are the Brain stem, Reptile brain hypothalamus, cerebellum and the cortex. There are many other structures of the brain but these are the main ones.

So what so special about a crocodile? Obviously the crocodile is a reptile, and if you throw a chicken into the crocodiles vicinity they lurch and grab the food. However, if you throw in a brick they go for that just as enthusiastically. In fact you can throw bricks all day long and a crocodile will never learn to recognise the difference between a brick and a chicken.

So in the middle of our heads is a control system with no learning behaviour. This is the reason why alcoholics or drug addicts cant stop their destructive habit even though they know its killing them.

So how do we by pass this system that works against us.

First the bad news, the scientists don't really know, further research is needed in this area. However, like learning to drive its not a 5 minute solution. It takes time.

Glimmers of hope

I am not saying this is definitive or even scientific as yet there simply is little or no evidence, however, people who meditate find changing habits easier, 5 minutes a day is all you need to get going.

Studies on people in an MRI scanner hypnotised, praying or meditating appear to switch off the same parts of the brain. This switch off process may be the key to change. ( Further instructions on Getsomeheadspace.com)

The second part is Cognitive behaviour recognition. Simply put being aware of the behaviours and recognising their damage. Again this appears to work better when we are showed pictures. Try a professional at getrealactive.com, for weight loss. They use this technology to help you amend your behaviour using professional support.

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