The Power of Neural Pathways in Habit Change
Understanding the Science Behind Habits
Neural pathways are intricate connections threaded throughout the brain. They are formed by axons projecting from neurons and allow the transmission of signals from one part of the nervous system to another. Understanding these neural highways has helped support my own behavioral changes, turning what seemed a mystery into actionable steps. I may not comprehend everything about neural pathways but understanding some part of it has been helpful to me.
Revising My Life with Neuroplasticity
Enter neuroplasticity—the brain's ability to change those pathways. Neuroplasticity allows us to build new connections and reshape the familiar grooves established by decades of repetition. It's the key to teaching old dogs new tricks.
Well-worn Snow Grooves and New Pathways
In the realm of habit change and addiction recovery, the conversation revolves around the battle between old snow grooves and the pursuit of creating fresh ones. Yes, our neural pathways can transform, but the lure of the "old snow groove" has a really strong pull, especially during stress and exhaustion—and if your life is like mine, that can be most days.
Transported Back to Adolescence
Recently, I tried a personal experiment that had some surprising results. I decided to disconnect from all things internet and engage in an old-fashioned game of Solitaire. I went out and bought a new deck of Bicycle playing cards. Little did I anticipate the time travel my brain had in store for me.
From Cigarette Packs to Packs of Playing Cards
As I peeled back the cellophane, my brain catapulted me back to my teenage years. The thin red tab reminded me of unwrapping a pack of cigarettes, triggering a carton of memories. I felt afraid for a flash that I was about to have a cigarette, which I hadn’t had in decades. It was a stark reminder of the power embedded in those old habits and how easily they can resurface.
"It's Like Riding a Bike"
Have you ever wondered why people say, "It's like riding a bike?” My card-playing experiment echoed this sentiment. Despite a quarter-century break from playing Solitaire with physical cards, my neurotransmitters easily navigated the task; much like the muscle memory of riding a bike, the brain's ability to recall old habits is genuinely remarkable.
Battling Biology: The Effort to Design New Paths
When I get frustrated about the difficulty of developing new habits, it helps if I remind myself of the power of biology. Old snow grooves are the brain’s default, and challenging them requires conscious effort. Changing those neural pathways requires much effort, but it's not impossible.
The Coaching Connection
Coaching is one strategy that helped me create new snow grooves. I turned to coaches to help me change my habits regarding food, alcohol, my morning routine, and coffee drinking. Right now, I’m working on my spending habits. You might consider making new, supportive snow grooves that align with your aspired life. As we age, it is nothing, but it’s almost always worth it.