What should you do while eating at a buffet counter: restrict the number of times you fill your plate or use a smaller plate and spoon? Which will be more effective: instructing children to keep their room clean or play ‘tidy my room’ with them?
Popularized by Richard Thaler, a nudge can help people make better choices. Nudges differ from mandates by influencing choices without restricting them. In chapter 2, you will find out what makes a good nudge and how behavioral findings like Default Options, Hawthorne Effect, and the EAST framework can help you plan and achieve your goals.
Psychologists tell us that we are predictably irrational: can you leverage that to your advantage? Three pillars will help you nudge yourself. First set up the right choice architecture, that is the environment in which you will be making a choice. Second celebrate small wins to generate momentum to reach your goals. Finally use the power within your social groups.
FOR THE STILL CURIOUS
More from the chapter
One Step at a Time
Turns out nudging passengers to walk up the steps at a train station in Stockholm, rather than use an escalator, isn’t that hard.
Don’t Mess with Texas
This campaign was intended to reduce the amount of litter on the highways of Texas. Find out how it worked.
The Power of Social Networks
The influence of your networks can change your approach and outlook to life.
