The Science Behind Why We Benefit from Routine
In a world of constant digital bombardment of successes and aspirational lifestyles it’s easy to feel below par. Personal and business successes seem “easy” for everyone else, particularly with the influx of “how to be successful in business” noise. The misconception that success hinges on big ideas, endless effort, or lightning-fast decisions, is just that. A misconception.
Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of supporting many businesses, and along the way, we’ve noticed the factors that are key to success – some of which might surprise you.
The secret to sustainable growth and business success lies, in part, in something much quieter; habits and routines. This is further supported by research and real-world experience.
As it happens, many of the world’s most successful entrepreneurs share a common approach: they don’t rely solely on willpower or talent. Instead, they actively develop daily habits and structured routines that support sustained focus, resilience, and consistent progress toward their goals.
Humans are neurologically hardwired to form habits and thrive on routine. These patterns help us conserve mental energy, reduce cognitive overload, and create a sense of stability. With this saved mental space, we have more capacity to innovate, create and achieve.
Understanding the neuroscience behind habits and routines can change the way you perceive success and provide valuable insight into how you can leverage the brain’s natural tendency to form habits to better your performance.
1. Brains love efficiency
The brain uses habit formation to conserve energy. Repeated actions are shifted from the prefrontal cortex (where conscious thought happens) to the basal ganglia, a deeper brain structure responsible for automatic behaviour.
This means once something becomes a habit, your brain can do it with less effort, less decision-making, and less stress.
Think, brushing your teeth or making breakfast on autopilot.
2. Repetition strengthens neural pathways
When you regularly repeat an action, your brain strengthens the neural pathway associated with it, a process known as neuroplasticity.
Essentially the more you do it, the easier it gets.
This is why routines feel “natural” over time, your brain is literally wired for it.
3. Routine provides predictability and reduces stress
Our brains crave rhythm and predictability. Behavioural psychology research shows routines help regulate mood, lower anxiety, and improve focus by making the world feel more manageable and allowing you to think about more important things.
This effect is especially valuable during uncertain times such as busy business seasons, personal upheaval or big changes.
The question is, “Shouldn’t it be easier to create a routine, if we’re wired to make them?”
In the modern age, routines face fierce competition from constant notifications, decision overload, and digital distractions. The virtual lives we lead creep into our real ones offering split or scattered focus and reactive behaviour. By this, I mean, the brain defaults to the path of least resistance. Scrolling, avoiding, procrastinating.
More willpower is always good, but it’s not necessarily the key to success. Designing smarter systems that work with your brain, and not against it, will help you focus on the things that matter and tune out the digital noise.
Why bother creating habits?
Building consistent habits and routines offers a variety of benefits, including:
- Reducing decision fatigue
- Building momentum
- Reducing stress
- Enhancing general wellbeing
- Improving time management
- Enhancing clarity and focus
As James Clear puts it “Habits are the compound interest of self-improvement.” Clear explains that habits are not about motivation, they’re about systems. Once the habit is wired in, you no longer have to rely on willpower. You just do it.
I highly recommend the book Atomic Habits by James Clear. It offers practical, science-backed strategies to help you design habits that stick and routines that power your success.
If you knew that just one habit could compound into significant business growth over the next year, what habit would you commit to today?
