Article · Neuroscience
How Habits Are Formed
Why we do what we do, and how to build new habits that actually last.
The habit loop
Every habit follows a simple loop: a cue, a routine and a reward. Your brain notices something (the cue), does something (the routine) and gets a feeling it likes (the reward).
Why repetition matters
Each time you repeat a behaviour, the connections in your brain that support it get stronger. Over time the behaviour needs less effort and becomes automatic.
Building a new habit
- Make it small: one minute counts.
- Attach it to something you already do.
- Notice the good feeling afterwards.
- Repeat. Consistency beats intensity.
Try this today
Pick one tiny positive habit and attach it to your morning coffee or the school run.
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