Coglode Cookbook

Create easy intentions during fresh beginnings

New beginnings offer powerful opportunities for change, but how can we make it easy to do so?

Fresh Start Effect

We're more likely to stick to habits made at the start of new time periods

If-Then Plans

If in this scenario, we then plan to do that, we'll more likely reach our goals

New beginnings offer powerful opportunities for change, but taking the first step is usually the hardest.

Use if-then plans as stepping stones towards goals. Once committed and envisioned, 'if-thens' remove the mental fatigue of planning, with the behaviour automatically implemented.

Using If-Then Plans at the start of new time periods is effective not only for doing the task itself but also for reducing any reluctance or forgetfulness in the beginning. As a bonus, If-Thens also work for extended periods of goal-striving, as well as protecting from distractions that take away attention from an ongoing task (Gollwitzer and Schaal 1998).

This Pairing is a great strategy to increase follow ups with doctors, for timely vaccination or dental appointments, insurance renewals or debt repayments. e.g. If the 1st of the month, then prompt to book appointment.

Task Completion

Create easy intentions during fresh beginnings

New beginnings offer powerful opportunities for change, but how can we make it easy to do so?

Fresh Start Effect

We're more likely to stick to habits made at the start of new time periods

If-Then Plans

If in this scenario, we then plan to do that, we'll more likely reach our goals

New beginnings offer powerful opportunities for change, but taking the first step is usually the hardest.

Use if-then plans as stepping stones towards goals. Once committed and envisioned, 'if-thens' remove the mental fatigue of planning, with the behaviour automatically implemented.

Task Completion

Create easy intentions during fresh beginnings

New beginnings offer powerful opportunities for change, but how can we make it easy to do so?

New beginnings offer powerful opportunities for change, but taking the first step is usually the hardest.

Use if-then plans as stepping stones towards goals. Once committed and envisioned, 'if-thens' remove the mental fatigue of planning, with the behaviour automatically implemented.