A few decades ago, a pair of psychologists named William Samuelson and Richard Zeckhauser discovered a phenomenon they dubbed the status quo bias. Simply put: most of us have a tendency to keep doing what we've been doing without giving it much thought.
Ever been offered a free subscription to a magazine for the first year? Why would we be offered something for free? It’s because magazine companies understand the status quo bias. Most of us will forget to cancel. And it’s not really that we’ve forgotten. We’re just too lazy to make a simple phone call or write a simple letter. Right? That is human nature! We tend to keep doing what we’ve been doing.
As we get ready to begin a new year, you need to challenge the status quo. I know there is nothing magical about a new year or a new decade. And not everybody has a resolution personality. But all of us need to make changes. Take some time to evaluate your life spiritually, relationally, physically, emotionally, and intellectually. What changes do you need to make? Is there something you need to stop doing or start doing? What do you need to do more or do less? Is there a choice you need to make? A goal you need to set? A habit you need to establish?
Don't maintain the status quo. Challenge it.
Ever been offered a free subscription to a magazine for the first year? Why would we be offered something for free? It’s because magazine companies understand the status quo bias. Most of us will forget to cancel. And it’s not really that we’ve forgotten. We’re just too lazy to make a simple phone call or write a simple letter. Right? That is human nature! We tend to keep doing what we’ve been doing.
As we get ready to begin a new year, you need to challenge the status quo. I know there is nothing magical about a new year or a new decade. And not everybody has a resolution personality. But all of us need to make changes. Take some time to evaluate your life spiritually, relationally, physically, emotionally, and intellectually. What changes do you need to make? Is there something you need to stop doing or start doing? What do you need to do more or do less? Is there a choice you need to make? A goal you need to set? A habit you need to establish?
Don't maintain the status quo. Challenge it.
8 Comments:
Tidying up my message for tomorrow and saw your post. The status quo concept fits perfectly with a point I am making about having a willingness and openness to change course and follow God. Thanks for sharing!
Five Categories For Goal Setting: 1. Finance, 2. Family, 3. Friendship, 4. Fitness, 5. Faith
I SECOND TO THIS BLOG! Preach that, Brother!
Thank you for the wisdom of the Lord. I was just given your book "In a Pit with a Lion" by a Christian college Professor as a Christmas gift. I'm on chapter three and must say the first two chapters have blessed, refreshened, and filled me with divine insight. Its just what I need as I struggle with a huge decision about God's future for me. I feel led to do something I don't have expereince with, no funds for, no inside connections, and no reputation to accomplish. But accordding to your book, I know how Big my God is!!!
Mark, you have been challenging me to think about this for weeks. Not to worry, I'm making a list - and checking it twice. I'm waiting to see Heather's Bible reading plan for the new year (one of my goals). I am GOING to start "that book" that I have been contemplating for years. I am considering exercise again (I always get so obsessed - it scares me to start). Thanks for the encouragement!
Amen
A to the men!
Oh my goodness. This is so true it's funny.
Thanks! I needed that.
"Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12:2
This is terrific Mark. Incorporating it into my sermon for today. Using the verse Jay posted as well.
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