The Ritual Effect: From Habit to Ritual, Harness the Surprising Power of Everyday Actions

by Dr Michael Norton Narrated by Dr Michael Norton

Overview

In the bestselling tradition of Charles Duhigg's The Power of Habit and Angela Duckworth's Grit, a renowned social psychologist demonstrates how a subtle turning of habits into rituals can “clear a little space for everyday magic” (The Guardian) in our lives.

Our lives are filled with repetitive tasks meant to keep us on track-what we come to know as habits. Over time, these routines (like brushing your teeth or putting on your right sock first) tend to be performed automatically. But when we're more mindful about these actions-when we focus on the precise way they are performed-they can instead become rituals. Shifting from a “habitual” mindset to a “ritual” mindset can convert ordinary acts from black and white to technicolor.

Think about the way you savor a certain beverage, the care you take with a particular outfit that gets worn only on special occasions, the unique way that your family gathers around the table during holidays, or the secret language you enjoy with your significant other. To some, these behaviors may seem quirky, but because rituals matter so deeply to us on a personal level, they give our lives purpose and meaning. Drawing on a decade of original research, Norton shows that rituals play a role in healing communities experiencing a great loss, marking life's major transitions, driving a stadium of sports fans to ecstasy, and helping us rise to challenges and realize opportunities.

Compelling, insightful, and practical, The Ritual Effect reminds us of the intention-filled acts that drive human behavior and create sur­prising satisfaction and enjoyment.

Editorial Reviews

APRIL 2024 - AudioFile

The need for rituals to promote a life of meaning is greater than ever, according to this inspiring audiobook. Harvard Professor Michael Norton's easy-listening performance makes his insights accessible. His confidence sounds professional and never overworked, allowing his knowledge and suggestions to speak for themselves. He says rituals have a broader purpose than habits because they create deep emotional associations, rather than simply automating behavior. Most interestingly, he shows how to turn ordinary habits into rituals by intentionally elevating their status and magnifying their impact on our lives. With powerful examples and a tone of encouragement, he shows how we can become more intentional with the rituals we create for ourselves and our communities. T.W. © AudioFile 2024, Portland, Maine

Product Details

BN ID:	2940159407252
Publisher:	Simon & Schuster
Publication date:	04/09/2024
Edition description:	Unabridged
Sales rank:	737,936

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