Embracing the unfamiliar

I remember reading a few years ago how strikes on the London Underground led to a sizeable fraction of commuters finding faster routes, which they continued with when the strikes ended.

We are creatures of habit. We have a tendency to prefer and seek out things that are familiar, while avoiding the unfamiliar. We develop routines and stick to what we know because it feels safe and easy.

This familiarity bias is rooted in our evolutionary past; staying close to what is familiar helped us survive and avoid danger. However, in today’s world, it can limit our personal growth and prevent us from trying new things that could be beneficial to us.

The neuroscientific value of novelty

So, how do we overcome familiarity bias? One way is to become comfortable with seeking out novel experiences, even if they initially induce a degree of discomfort.

When we expose ourselves to new situations and ideas, our brains are forced to work harder and adapt, leading to new learning and growth opportunities.

Novel experiences can actually change the structure of our brains. When we experience something new, our brains create new neural pathways, strengthening existing ones and forming new connections. This neuroplasticity is what allows us to learn and adapt throughout our lives, and it’s crucial for personal growth and development. (It’s my favourite scientific concept!)

This is one of the reasons you’ll hear the advice of starting new hobbies, in particular those that you are initially bad at. The learning process to develop this new skill can have wider benefits across other domains of life.

Implementation idea

Consider implementing some form of novelty to break your daily routines.

Novel experiences can take many forms; it could be trying a new hobby, visiting a new place, meeting new people, or even just trying a new food each time you go to the supermarket.

As I have written before, I love travelling to new places, and I believe it is one of the best investments you can make in yourself. New places, people and cultures provide new perspectives, and I can almost instantly feel the changes in me.

The key is to step out of our comfort zones and embrace the unknown.

Best, Alex Joshi.

On my bedside table:

• Non-fiction: Start with why, by Simon Sinek (link)

  • Key point: Your ‘why’ should be the reason behind every decision you make and every message you transmit.

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