Fake it until you make it; this is often a concept we explore in therapy when someone comes in feeling depressed. Depression likes to both isolate and kill effort and sometimes we have to just do things anyway. Accept the invitation, get up and take a shower, walk to the store to pick up a few things.
This strategy; however, can be used other times too. Sometimes we want to change an old habit or create a new one; we realize that we are engaging in poor choices, or leaning into coping strategies that aren’t healthy. The reason that it often works is based on the fact that changes in our behaviours often proceeds internal change.
Habits tend to form neural pathways in our brain; both good and bad ones. We tend to lean into the same routines and structure; we find comfort in familiarity. It may feel natural to simply do things a certain way, but perhaps it is not the healthiest choice. First, we find an alternative – and then “fake it til you make it.” Eventually, a new habit forms, new neural pathways are created, and the changes get accepted into your routine and internal structure, creating a healthier you 🙂
Photo credit: https://unsplash.com/@esteejanssens
Very good and so true. It really works!