Where do we see this:
We see this with family, friends, and social groups. When we are a part of a social group, when members of that group do something, we are more likely to do that as well. For example, I played basketball. I now have a lot of basketball friends. Even though I no longer play basketball competitively, I play in two men's leagues because that is what my friends do. If I were to stop playing, it would be very hard for me to say no to requests to play because there is a strong bond of connection around basketball. That is why there is the common saying "You are the equivalent of the 5 people closest to you" We are motivated and driven by the people around us.
What to do with this:
Find ways to connect with others and do things that add value to them. Go out of your way to consciously create/join groups of people that are doing things you want to do instead of doing the things because those around you are doing them. If you don't like doing certain things, it will be hard to change if you are surrounded by others who are doing them. Instead, you can find new people to surround yourself with. This has never been easier with the ability to connect not just in person but over the phone and internet. While physical proximity matters, social and temporal proximity can also have a huge impact on your habits and behaviors (more on that in the future)
Best,
Andrew
[email protected]
@andrewzimbd