How to motivate yourself to change your behavior | Tali Sharot | TEDxCambridge

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the key concepts presented by Dr. Tali Sharot in her TEDx talk on motivating behavioral change. With insights from her research in neuroscience, you will learn three essential ingredients that can help you change your actions for the better. These strategies can be applied to various aspects of life, including health, productivity, and personal growth.

Step 1: Harness the Power of Emotion

• Understand that emotions play a crucial role in motivation. They are often more influential than rational thinking.
• To leverage emotions for change:
  • Identify your emotional triggers. Reflect on what feelings motivate you or hold you back.
  • Create a compelling vision of the future. Visualize the positive outcomes of changing your behavior to evoke strong emotional responses.
  • Use storytelling techniques. Share your vision with others or write it down to reinforce the emotional connection.

Step 2: Embrace the Concept of Progress

• Recognize that tracking progress can enhance motivation. Seeing how far you've come can boost your commitment to change.
• To implement this concept:
  • Set clear, measurable goals. Break down your main objective into smaller, achievable milestones.
  • Regularly review your progress. Use a journal or an app to document your achievements and reflect on your journey.
  • Celebrate small wins. Acknowledge and reward yourself for reaching milestones to reinforce positive behavior.

Step 3: Foster Social Connections

• Human beings are inherently social creatures. Support from others can significantly influence your motivation.
• To cultivate social support:
  • Surround yourself with positive influences. Seek out friends, family, or groups that inspire and encourage you.
  • Share your goals publicly. By vocalizing your intentions, you create a sense of accountability to those around you.
  • Engage in collaborative efforts. Join a community or team focused on similar goals to boost motivation through shared experiences.

Conclusion

Changing behavior is a multifaceted process that involves understanding emotional triggers, tracking progress, and leveraging social support. By applying these three ingredients—emotion, progress, and connection—you can significantly enhance your motivation to enact positive changes in your life. Start by identifying which ingredient resonates most with you, and take actionable steps towards your goals. Remember, small changes can lead to significant transformations over time.