When it comes to establishing routines, there is a common belief that incorporating variety can be beneficial. Research spanning several decades has consistently shown that while consistency is crucial, introducing breaks in activities such as work, academics, sports, or mental challenges can enhance the quality of life. Studies even indicate that couples experience peak happiness when engaging in new activities together or reconnecting after a period of separation.
The essence of variety in life lies in its ability to stimulate our brains and evoke emotional responses. Neuroscientist Tali Sharot explains that when our surroundings remain static, we tend to overlook them since there is no need for active engagement or thought. This lack of attention results in diminished emotional reactions.
Sharot, a neuroscience professor at MIT and University College London, along with her co-author Cass Sunstein, a legal scholar from Harvard, delve into the concept of habituation—where individuals become accustomed to their environment and behaviors. They reference the insights of Hungarian economist Tibor Scitovsky to highlight the advantages of deviating from routines and seeking novelty. Research indicates that people derive the most joy from novel experiences or “firsts.”
To cultivate more first-time experiences, Sharot suggests breaking up enjoyable activities into smaller segments rather than embarking on extended periods of indulgence. By fragmenting these experiences, individuals are less likely to habituate quickly, allowing them to savor each moment more fully.
Drawing on examples from renowned actresses, Sharot emphasizes the importance of rejuvenating our perspectives by taking breaks in daily life. This practice, known as “re-sparkling,” enables individuals to view their circumstances with renewed clarity and appreciation.
For those unable to take physical breaks, Sharot references the work of Yale psychologist and happiness expert Laurie Santos, who proposes that imagining life without loved ones can evoke similar feelings of gratitude and joy.
Furthermore, Sharot explores the link between habituation and creativity, noting that simple changes in environment or routine can enhance creative thinking by disrupting habituation. She underscores the value of seeking solutions from diverse domains to foster innovation and combat mental stagnation.
In their book, Sharot and Sunstein highlight the positive correlation between leading a varied life filled with diverse experiences and overall life satisfaction. Reflecting on regrets, Sharot emphasizes that individuals often lament missed opportunities for diversification in their past choices. Embracing challenges and adjustments, even when difficult, can instill a sense of agency and efficacy, ultimately contributing to a higher sense of well-being than monotonous repetition.