To change behaviour, change the environment
To make behaviour change sustainable, take a design approach. This applies equally well to both our personal lives and to our work organisations.
Do it with intent
Reminding yourself of the intent behind an action is a powerful way to avoid distractions and procrastination.
Why New Year's promises fail, and what to do about it
You have finished cleaning the plate of the last bits of ham. You take a sip of your beer, feel your stomach bulging and think: "This is Christmas, it's ok to indulge and eat in excess. Soon it will be next year, and then I will get back in shape. I will start exercising and eating healthy, and by the summer I'll look great when I'm lying on the beach in my swimming trunks and enjoying the sun. Promise."
Why I don't follow news: Case H1N1
It's been about 6 months since I decided to stop watching news on TV, reading newspapers (except when stealing a glimpse of a headline at the grocery), and following most news sites on the Internet. Back in my high school days I took special pride in reading the morning paper and keeping track on world affairs. But for what purpose? Other than it making me feel smug and superior to those who weren't doing it, I'm not sure I have a good answer.
We have failed to fail
One common topic of discussion we have had this fall at the Aalto Entrepreneurship Societyevents is how fear of failure is one of the biggest obstacles stopping people from starting their own businesses. Some are concerned about their financial security and what would happen if the business fails, but on the other hand the steps that can be taken to minimize the financial impact of failure are rather simple. For example; don't quit your day job until you have some idea about the feasibility of your business, and make sure you have enough savings to last 6-12 months with no other source of income. ... [Click the post title to read more]