Welcome back to Brainflix: Pause, breathe & watch your habits take a plot twist!

In our previous article, we explored how our personal assistant Nic (who lives rent-free in our brains) is fantastic at running autopilot programs - keeping us on track... or stuck in routines we’d rather not be in.

Ever found yourself diving headfirst into emails as soon as you open your laptop? Before you know it, your day is hijacked by other people's requests, and your to-do list? It’s now more of a "wish list." By 5 p.m., you're left wondering how time disappeared while your stress level skyrocketed. Sound familiar?

It’s like Nic is running the show - and he’s on autopilot.

?? Hit the Pause Button! ??

The key to escaping this endless loop is simple: take a breath, hit pause, and think.

Before you dive into emails, ask yourself: Is this really the best use of my time right now? Maybe it’s time to focus on that project that’s been collecting virtual dust.

?? Pro tip: Instead of getting sucked into the email vortex, spend 10 minutes prioritizing your day and start with the important stuff. You’ll thank yourself later.

?? Beware of P.A. Nic’s Panic Mode! ??

Our Nic - who loves to take shortcuts to cope with the complexity of the world - gets a little freaked out when you try to change things up too fast. Too vague, too complex, too big? He can’t handle it and will push you right back into your comfort zone. That’s why making small, specific changes is the way to go.

??♀? One step at a time. ??♂?

Speaking of small, neuroscientist Dan Huberman suggests a tiny trick to help you calm down and refocus: the physiological sigh. It’s as simple as breathing in through your nose, taking a second short breath, then exhaling slowly through your mouth. Instant calm.

But let’s make it even better: add a “ssssss” sound on the exhale.

Why? Because “sss” reminds you of the magic formula for lasting change:

Specific, Smooth, Small.

?? Reflection Time ??

So, what’s one small change you can start today? It doesn’t have to be huge, just a little tweak to help Nic chill and keep you on track.

And remember, when in doubt… just breathe… sssss.

****

?? Wanna get inspired on a monthly basis on how to make change simple? In my dedicated newsletter series I show you how: https://www.cyrielkortleven.com/making-change-simple

No spam, no rules, just playful challenging your change-muscles! ??