Ep 6. How To Break Your Bad Habit

AsapSCIENCE is a popular educational web series that explores the science behind various aspects of everyday life. In Season 1 Episode 6, titled "How To Break Your Bad Habit," the hosts Mitch and Greg dive deep into the psychology of bad habits and provide tips and tricks on how to overcome them.

The episode starts with a scene of Mitch trying to quit smoking. Mitch confesses that he has been trying to quit smoking for years but has failed every time. This leads to a discussion on the science of addiction and how habits form in our brains.

The hosts explain how habits are formed through a process called habituation, where our brains create neural pathways for routine actions. When such actions become habitual, they are reinforced through a reward system in our brains. This makes it challenging to break bad habits, as our brains crave the rewards associated with them.

The hosts then list out some of the most common bad habits people struggle with, such as smoking, biting nails, and procrastination. They explain that these habits are not just physical actions but also involve psychological triggers that make it difficult to change them.

The hosts then dive into techniques that can help break these bad habits. They suggest starting with identifying the triggers that lead to the habit, such as stress, boredom, or social cues. Once the triggers are identified, one can try to avoid them or replace them with healthier alternatives.

Another technique suggested is the 'Don't Break The Chain' method, where a person tries to cultivate a new habit by doing it consistently for a set period. This method creates an emotional connection with the activity and reinforces the habit.

The episode also talks about the power of accountability and the role of support groups in breaking bad habits. The hosts suggest finding a partner or group who can support the habit-breaking process and hold you accountable when you slip up.

Towards the end of the episode, the hosts emphasize the importance of patience and self-compassion in the habit-breaking process. They explain that changing a habit takes time and effort, and it's okay to slip up from time to time.

In conclusion, AsapSCIENCE Season 1 Episode 6 "How To Break Your Bad Habit" provides a comprehensive guide to understanding the science behind bad habits and techniques to overcome them. Whether you're trying to quit smoking or break a nail-biting habit, this episode offers practical tips and insights that can be helpful for anyone looking to make positive changes in their lives.