Like most of us, I spend way too much time online. Part of this is for work, but if I'm honest, a sizable chunk consists of mindless scrolling. I typically succumb during periods of boredom, though the stress of a deadline can lead me down a rabbit hole.
Let's say I'm-oh, I don't know, researching a story on changing bad habits. Soon enough, instead of reading the latest study on the subject, I'm pinning an air fryer recipe on Pinterest and buying a Sherpa fleece-lined scarf. And I've tried willing myself to make today the day I don't check social media 34 times before noon. Yet somehow, as I take my first sip of coffee, my cursor makes its way to that tab seemingly all on its own.
Unfortunately, I learn every day what researchers are finding out: Relying on willpower-the notion that you can overcome temptation and stick to a goal if you simply try hard enough-isn't the most efficient, effective way to change habits. In fact, according to one APA survey, it was the most commonly cited barrier to making healthy lifestyle changes. "There's no clear evidence that willpower even exists," says Judson Brewer, M.D., Ph.D., an associate professor at the Brown University School of Public Health and the author of several books, including The Craving Mind: From Cigarettes to Smartphones to Love. One thing is certain: If it does exist, it tends to flake out at just the moments we need it most.
Dr. Brewer cites research suggesting that during times of stress, such as when we're hungry, angry, lonely or tired, the area of the brain thought to be responsible for controlling behavior, called the prefrontal cortex, goes offline, making us more likely to give in to unsavory habits. If you've ever emptied your coworker's candy bowl when tensions were running high at work, you've experienced this firsthand.
この記事は Good House Keeping - US の September 2022 版に掲載されています。
7 日間の Magzter GOLD 無料トライアルを開始して、何千もの厳選されたプレミアム ストーリー、9,000 以上の雑誌や新聞にアクセスしてください。
すでに購読者です ? サインイン
この記事は Good House Keeping - US の September 2022 版に掲載されています。
7 日間の Magzter GOLD 無料トライアルを開始して、何千もの厳選されたプレミアム ストーリー、9,000 以上の雑誌や新聞にアクセスしてください。
すでに購読者です? サインイン
Great Gifts for Pet Lovers
Tie a bow around one of these - they're perfect for four-legged friends and those who love them.
Sister Act
Dolly Parton and her sister Rachel Parton George spoke to our sister publication in the U.K. about their new cookbook and the secret ingredient in all their favorite dishes: love.
Cookie Wonder
The Test Kitchen baked more than 700 cookies (that's about 60 dozen!) to perfect the tastiest treats for your holiday table.
Fuel Your Mornings
Jump-start the day with these easy, healthy breakfast ideas.
The Best Heartburn Helpers
'Tis the season for giant, festive meals. Here's how to enjoy your holiday favorites minus the discomfort.
OUR FAVORITE WINTER READ Cozy Up
Best Winter Reads
The Magic OF MI FAMILIA
When I was a kid, every Sunday with my Mexican American community - full of wonderful traditions and warm tortillas - felt like a holiday.
DECORATE WITH Rugs
Follow these expert tips to choose the best rug style, material and size for your space.
Sparkle ALL THE Way
Bring on the holiday cheer with these creative DIY decor ideas the whole family will love.
All IS Bright!
Dress up your makeup for the holidays with a festive flash of eye-catching color. Just pick a standout shade as well as a feature to highlight and keep the rest of your look simple.