How Habits Really Form: Three Science-Backed Strategies for Lasting Change
Mon Feb 02 2026
Text Dr. Black your questions or comments.
Is willpower really the key to success? Not according to neuroscience. In this episode, I walk you through what truly drives habit formation — and why biology, mood, stress, sleep, hormones, and environment matter far more than discipline.
We’ll explore:
Why habits are your brain’s “energy-saving mode”How repetition, context, and reward shape behaviorWhy identity (“I’m the kind of person who…”) mattersThree strategies scientists agree reliably build lasting habitsSimple, actionable examples for nutrition, movement, sleep, and productivityYou’ll also learn bonus tools like the One-Minute Rule, the Five-Second Rule, and friction-reducing tricks to make healthy choices the easiest choices.
This episode builds on the weight loss biology episode and gives you a roadmap for sticking with your goals — without relying on motivation alone.
If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate it, leave a review, and most importantly, share it with a friend!
Don't forget to visit the show website and subscribe!
For resources related to a plant-based diet or if you struggle to afford healthy food for your family, please go to eatgreenswithdrblack.com/resources.
Please note that the "Send Dr. Black a Text" feature at the top of the show notes does NOT allow me to respond directly. Please include your contact information or email me at dr.black@eatgreenswithdrblack.com.
I am happy to answer general questions related to the information presented on this podcast. Be advised that I will never offer specific medical advice via this website, even if your child is an established patient in my practice. If you have concerns about your child’s health or growth, please contact their doctor.
Thanks for listening and don't forget to Eat Your Greens!
More
Text Dr. Black your questions or comments. Is willpower really the key to success? Not according to neuroscience. In this episode, I walk you through what truly drives habit formation — and why biology, mood, stress, sleep, hormones, and environment matter far more than discipline. We’ll explore: Why habits are your brain’s “energy-saving mode”How repetition, context, and reward shape behaviorWhy identity (“I’m the kind of person who…”) mattersThree strategies scientists agree reliably build lasting habitsSimple, actionable examples for nutrition, movement, sleep, and productivityYou’ll also learn bonus tools like the One-Minute Rule, the Five-Second Rule, and friction-reducing tricks to make healthy choices the easiest choices. This episode builds on the weight loss biology episode and gives you a roadmap for sticking with your goals — without relying on motivation alone. If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate it, leave a review, and most importantly, share it with a friend! Don't forget to visit the show website and subscribe! For resources related to a plant-based diet or if you struggle to afford healthy food for your family, please go to eatgreenswithdrblack.com/resources. Please note that the "Send Dr. Black a Text" feature at the top of the show notes does NOT allow me to respond directly. Please include your contact information or email me at dr.black@eatgreenswithdrblack.com. I am happy to answer general questions related to the information presented on this podcast. Be advised that I will never offer specific medical advice via this website, even if your child is an established patient in my practice. If you have concerns about your child’s health or growth, please contact their doctor. Thanks for listening and don't forget to Eat Your Greens!