Action Bias

Action bias We act in order to gain some sense of control or even to eliminate a problem -      1 - Doing something is better than doing nothing o  We see this in business where we begin looking for solutions before we have even fully developed what the problem is. o  This is what we do when we are dealing with addictive behaviors. o  Giving in to our urges is an action that we engage in for a variety of reasons – sometimes because we think it will make the urge go away or because we want to do it regardless of the consequences. o  This also comes into play when we engage in distracting ourselves. o  Keep ourselves busy – go run rather than deal with the urge, get busy with work rather than deal with the urge other distracting behaviors. o  Or the classic, “im craving this, so I have to eat it.” o   -      12 - Others expect me to do something. o  Soccer goalies jumping left or right when statistically they should stay in the middle of the goal o  White knuckling is a form of action where we exert extraordinary effort to keep our urges and impulses at bay. o  Others expect us to just do it, or in this case not do it.  o  The action we are taking is fighting the urge o  Holding it at bay. o   -      There is an alternative. -      David Attenborough – iguana chased by killer snakes video.  -      Narrates very little, at end says in a chill voice – a near miraculous escape. -      That’s it, -      Allowing the urge – -      Just sit and watch it -      Do nothing, -      Observe – feelings, thoughts, urges -