Habit forming: How thoughts are subtle building blocks for behavior

Everyone talks about building good habits.

But few talk about how easy it is to slip into bad habits. The thoughts we have every day become habits.

Let's consider X, who is working in a team.

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X Thinks: It's every person for themselves. I can't trust my colleagues in this zero sum game.

X Outcome: Does not synergize with team. Tries to manipulate them.

X behavior: Teammates avoid this person. Their reputation as a backstabber travel far and wide, and critical projects are given to someone more trustworthy.

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X Thinks: Just go through the motions at this job. I don't like the work here anyway. I will follow my passion on the side.

X Outcome: Finds it hard to focus on anything. Everything feels like a waste of time, and they want to quit everyday.

X Behavior: Jumps from one job to another. Eventually pursues their passion, and then claims their real passion is something else. In fact, passion isn't the problem, the habit of fluttering is.

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X Thinks: My teammate is an idiot. They don't deserve to be here.

X Outcome: Instead of leveraging the power of this teammate, X challenges them at every turn. They ridicule this teammate in front of others.

X Behavior: X can't be trusted to give unbiased assessments. Their negativity and politics is getting to the other team mates.

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How do you avoid these habits?

By checking your thoughts. Try:

1. I won't be na?ve, but I TRUST my teammates to do their best for me. It is not a zero sum game.
2. If I build a habit to ignore my responsibilities in pursuit of my passions, I will be trapped by my whims. I will KEEP my promises today.
3. There are many skills in the world. If my teammate is not good at something, I will help them GROW.

Keep up those good habits, and you'll do amazing.