In the second installment of this summer series, I am eager to talk about The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg — a book about how one can create changes in life and business through the power of repetitive actions and positive reinforcements.
The book is an excellent read because it provides both historical examples of lessons being reinforced (such as references to the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the creation of Starbucks), as well as personal tidbits that people can apply to their everyday lives. The underlying lesson of creating a successful habit is consistent application of the same behavior that is reinforced by a positive association. According to scientific research explained in this book, a behavior becomes habit when you do something 66 days in a row. The idea that you can change your mantra through conscious physical and mental exercise is encouraging to both business owners and individuals. For example, if you wanted to incentivize yourself to work out everyday, you may pair the workout with a subsequent trip to your favorite coffee shop as a reinforcer.
Business leaders can use these principles to create positive habits among employees and staff. Here’s how:
Take-away: Charles Duhigg’s book is applicable to small business owners. Continually improve your best practices through reinforcement and refinement. All businesses must habitually search for excellence and not settle for the status quo.
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Brian Califano
Co-founders & Managing Partners
AcceleratingCFO