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Writer's pictureAsaya Azah

The Habit Loop


In his book, "The Power of Habit", Charles Duhigg, describes the process by which habits are formed and maintained as the habit loop. The habit loop consists of three components: cue, routine, and reward. Here's a breakdown of each element:


Cue: The cue is a trigger or a signal that initiates the habit. It can be an internal or external prompt that sets off a chain of actions. Cues can be specific times of day, locations, emotional states, people, or even certain smells or sounds. For example, feeling hungry (cue) might prompt you to reach for a snack.


Routine: The routine is the behavior or action that follows the cue. It is the habitual response to the cue. This is the part of the habit loop that we often think of as the habit itself. Using the previous example, the routine would be grabbing a snack and eating it.


Reward: The reward is the positive outcome or satisfaction that follows the routine. It is the motivation behind the habit. Rewards can be physical, emotional, or psychological. In the case of snacking, the reward could be the pleasure of tasting something delicious or the temporary relief from hunger.


The habit loop is a cyclical process. After the reward is experienced, the brain takes note of the cue and associates it with the routine and reward. Over time, this association becomes stronger, and the habit loop becomes more automatic.


Understanding the habit loop can be valuable for modifying or creating new habits. By identifying the cues and rewards associated with existing habits, you can consciously manipulate the routine to change the habit. This can involve replacing an unhealthy routine with a healthier one or finding alternative ways to fulfill the reward.


It's important to note that breaking or changing habits requires awareness, effort, and repetition. By consciously reshaping the habit loop and being mindful of the cues, routines, and rewards, you can develop healthier habits that align with your fitness goals


Motion, Muscle & Mindset,

Coach Asaya


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