Psychology of Actions: Introduction

Why this newsletter?

“What are the dynamics that drive our actions? And if we know those dynamics, can we produce intentional change?”

This core question has fascinated me. And when I finally decided to research this, I thought, why not invite you along for the ride on this journey?

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The Hypothesis of the “Intentional Response Theory”

Based on my research, the theory that I arrived at is linked with System 1 (automatic and intuitive) and System 2 (deliberate and analytical) Thinking popularized by Daniel Kahneman in his book, "Thinking, Fast and Slow."

I call it the “INTENTIONAL RESPONSE THEORY” of personal growth. According to the hypothesis:

Personal Growth is responding deliberately via System 2 Thinking to events our previous self would have reacted to via System 1 Thinking. And keep repeating this process until the intentional System 2 responses override and replace the old habitual System 1 reactions and become the new ones.

Our automatic System 1 Thinking has three kinds of foundational elements: Biologically innate (reflexive actions), Cognitive (pattern recognition, reasoning), and Non-Cognitive (Identity, Mindset, Attitude, Perspective, etc).

We are a little limited in enhancing our Biologically Innate and Cognitive elements (some cognitive skills, like processing speed or memory, may be influenced by biological factors such as age or genetics; other aspects of cognition are plastic and can be enhanced through targeted practices). But we can surely improve the Non-Cognitive Elements.

The Non-Cognitive Elements (Identity, Mindset, Attitude, Perspective, etc.) of our System 1 form and are reinforced over time through processes that repeat over and over like a Loop.

And, according to the Intentional Response Theory, there are two main aspects of changing these non-cognitive elements:

1. Recognizing when our System 1 responses are not helping us

2. Cultivating awareness to engage our System 2 thinking to override those automatic responses. And keep overriding them until they become the default responses of our System 1.

Now, to explain the Loop and dissect the Non-Cognitive Elements, I use a framework. I call it the FoRC (pronounced as “Fork,” and stands for Formation, Reinforcement, and Change) framework . I have elaborated on the FoRC framework in "The Approach" section further down below.

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The Plan

Every Thursday, I'll publish an article on the Psychology of Actions, systematically exploring the forces shaping our behavior. You can check out the progress via the Psychology of Actions: Overview article. I urge you to share your suggestions as readily as they come. Your valuable suggestions are always welcome – this is a collaborative journey.

A note: Every Tuesday, I also share a Wisdom Memo focused on shifting perspectives. These ideas complement our exploration of actions by offering new ways to view challenges and opportunities.

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The Start

I'll begin with Daniel Kahneman's concept of System 1 and System 2 thinking from the book "Thinking, Fast and Slow." (Side note: I cannot recommend this book enough.) This foundational idea will set the stage for understanding how our minds process information and make decisions.

Then, I will dive into the core topics. I’ll look at these topics through the lens of System 1 and System 2 thinking.

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The List of Topics

Here is a list to give you an overview of the topics I plan on covering:

Foundation of Our Actions

• Identity

• Values and Virtues

Inner Dynamics of Action

• Psychological Drivers

  • Motivation

  • Inspiration

• Mindset and Beliefs

  • Mindset

  • Beliefs

• Cognitive Processes

  • Perception

  • Perspective

  • Attitude

• Finding Purpose and Meaning

  • Finding the Why

Optimizing Actions

• Focus

• Creativity

• Emotional Intelligence

Sustaining Actions

• Resilience

• Persistence and Perseverance

• Grit

This list is by no means complete. And I will be adding further topics here when I encounter them based on my exploration.

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The FoRC Analysis Framework Approach

For each topic, I plan on using a framework to understand it. For the time being, I am calling it the FoRC Framework. (Yes, its pronounced as “Fork” and you are more than welcome to share your suggestions for renaming it to something even better :))

The FoRC Framework: Formation, Reinforcement and Change Framework

• Formation and Reinforcement Loop: How is the concept formed and reinforced?

• Recognizing the need for change: Which of our System 1 responses are not helping us?

• Laws of Change: How can we intentionally modify it?

How is this framework used?

Let's say the topic is Mindset. So, in order to explain Mindset, here’s how I will use the FoRC Framework.

• Mindset Formation Loop - How do our experiences and environment shape our mindset?

  Mindset Reinforcement Loop - What daily interactions or thoughts reinforce our current mindset?

• Recognizing the need for Changing Mindset - What in our current mindset needs to change that can help us become who we want to be?

• Laws of Mindset Change - What strategies can effectively shift our mindset?

I can't guarantee that this framework would fit all the topics, but I give you my word ;) unless it makes sense, I won't deliberately try to fit the topic in this framework.

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What Else?

Once I cover a topic, I will create different Frameworks and Systems to implement specific aspects of the topic in day-to-day life. There is no point in indulging in an intellectual exercise and not applying the knowledge gained, right?

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One Last Thing

To develop a deeper, more well-rounded understanding, I plan to periodically conduct research surveys.

Your firsthand experiences, perspectives, and challenges will be invaluable in shaping the content and framework of this newsletter. I encourage you to participate in these surveys when they are offered. Your insights will directly inform the topics we cover and the practical strategies we uncover together.

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Concluding Thoughts

Understanding the psychology behind our actions is the first step towards meaningful change. Whether you're looking to change behaviour, take new actions or simply understand yourself better, this newsletter will hopefully provide the tools and insights you need.

Subscribe now and join me on this fascinating journey of intentional change.

Stay genuine! Stay authentic!

Nik Pathran

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PS: I appreciate you reading. Thanks to the new subscribers!

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