Have you ever noticed how your behavior changes depending on who you’re with? Whether it’s eating healthier, exercising more, or staying focused at work, the people around you have a huge impact on your habits. This is the power of social norms—the unwritten rules that guide how we behave in groups. If you want to adopt better habits, one of the most effective strategies is to surround yourself with people who embody those habits. Let’s explore how this works and how you can use it to your advantage.
What Are Social Norms?
Social norms are the shared expectations and behaviors that are considered acceptable in a group. They influence everything from how we dress to how we spend our time. For example, if everyone in your office takes a walk during lunch, you’re more likely to do the same.
These norms are powerful because humans are social creatures. We naturally want to fit in and be accepted by the people around us. This means that the habits of your social group can easily become your habits too.
Why Social Norms Matter for Habit Formation
The people you spend time with shape your behavior in subtle but significant ways. Here’s why social norms are so influential:
- They provide motivation: When you see others doing something, it inspires you to do it too.
- They create accountability: If your friends or colleagues are working toward similar goals, you’re more likely to stay on track.
- They make habits easier: Being part of a group that shares your habits reduces friction and makes the behavior feel natural.
How to Surround Yourself with the Right People
If you want to adopt new habits, it’s important to spend time with people who already embody those habits. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Identify Your Goals
Start by clarifying the habits you want to adopt. Do you want to exercise regularly? Eat healthier? Be more productive? Once you know your goals, you can look for people who already live them.
2. Join Relevant Communities
Find groups, clubs, or organizations where your desired habits are the norm. For example:
- If you want to get fit, join a running club or gym.
- If you want to read more, join a book club.
- If you want to be more productive, attend networking events or workshops.
3. Build Relationships
Once you’ve found the right communities, focus on building relationships with people who inspire you. Spend time with them, ask for advice, and learn from their experiences.
For example, if you want to start a business, connect with entrepreneurs who can share their insights and encourage you along the way.
4. Limit Time with Negative Influences
While it’s important to surround yourself with positive influences, it’s equally important to limit time with people who encourage bad habits. This doesn’t mean cutting people out of your life entirely, but it does mean being mindful of how their behavior affects you.
For instance, if you’re trying to eat healthier, you might avoid spending too much time with friends who always suggest fast food.
5. Be a Positive Influence Yourself
As you adopt new habits, you’ll naturally start to influence the people around you. Share your progress, encourage others, and create a positive feedback loop.
For example, if you’ve started meditating regularly, invite a friend to join you. Your habit could inspire them to make a change too.
Real-Life Examples of Social Norms in Action
Let’s look at how social norms can shape habits in different areas of life:
In Fitness
If you join a group of people who exercise regularly, you’re more likely to stick to your workout routine. Seeing others prioritize fitness makes it easier to do the same.
In Health
If your friends and family eat healthy meals, you’re more likely to adopt similar eating habits. Social gatherings might include fresh salads and smoothies instead of junk food.
In Productivity
If your coworkers are focused and organized, you’re more likely to stay on task and meet deadlines. A culture of productivity can help you develop better work habits.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While surrounding yourself with the right people is powerful, there are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Trying to change too quickly: Don’t expect to adopt new habits overnight. Focus on building relationships and learning from others.
- Ignoring your own values: Make sure the habits you’re adopting align with your personal goals and values.
- Overcommitting: Joining too many groups or communities can feel overwhelming. Start small and focus on quality over quantity.
The Long-Term Benefits of Positive Social Norms
When you surround yourself with people who embody the habits you want to adopt, you set yourself up for long-term success. Over time, this approach can lead to:
- Stronger habits: Being part of a supportive group makes it easier to stick to your goals.
- Greater motivation: Seeing others succeed inspires you to keep going.
- Deeper connections: Building relationships with like-minded people creates a sense of belonging and support.
The people around you have a huge influence on your habits. By surrounding yourself with positive influences, you can make it easier to adopt the behaviors you want and achieve your goals. Whether it’s joining a new community, building relationships, or being a role model yourself, small changes in your social environment can lead to big results.
So take a look at the people in your life. Are they helping you grow, or holding you back? If needed, make some changes and start spending time with those who inspire you. Remember, you become like the people you surround yourself with—so choose wisely.
