Want Better Habits? Have Someone Else Give You the Rewards

In a recent blog at LifeHacker Eric Ravenscraft explored the problem (as discussed by Barking Up the Wrong Tree) of giving yourself rewards when trying to break bad habits.

We are more likely to cheat when it comes to doling out rewards. Though, by having someone else give us the reward, they ensure we are following the plan that we laid out.

A good way to build a habit is to give yourself a specific reward when you stick to your habits. A better way is to have someone else control those rewards. Because, let’s face it, you can’t be trusted with them.

Cheating

Cheating is the problem and accountability is the solution here. The research shows that having rewards or “commitment devices” work well. The key is making sure that you aren't able to cheat. That also means not having your friends cheat for you either.

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Rewards vs. Punishments?

I explore the subject of why positive rewards are better than punishments in my book Habit Ignition. Though, it is important to find what works best for you.

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