Stardate 06.14.2026
If your brain behaves like a wild stallion and you're considering major changes but don't know how to move forward because your mind keeps resisting, this story is for you. It may be especially helpful if you're approaching retirement and trying to establish new habits for the years ahead.
One observation I've made about my own life is that change seems easier when we're younger. Our brains have had less time to settle into routines. As the years pass, our habits become familiar companions. Some are helpful. Others are harder to move aside.
I've started treating my brain the way a parent treats a child.
The parent can often see the desired outcome. The child simply wants what it wants right now.
We've all witnessed the youngster who yells and screams in hopes of getting his way. Parents know there are times when giving in only creates bigger problems later. Learning to delay gratification and adapt to change becomes an important part of growing up.
I think our brains behave in much the same way.
The interesting part is that our brains aren't trying to sabotage us. Much of the resistance comes from a desire to protect us. The brain prefers what is familiar. It likes routines and known outcomes. Change introduces uncertainty.
Sometimes we have to reassure our own minds that the changes we're making are actually good for us.
A couple of days ago, I brought home four more packs of sardines. That's twenty-four additional breakfasts for my ninety-day experiment to improve my Omega-3 intake.
Truthfully, my brain had other ideas.
It wanted chocolates.
Guess who won that battle?
If your money was on the parent, you guessed correctly.
The first can of sardines was the hardest. My brain rebelled. The house smelled terrible. Then another voice entered the conversation.
The female brain in the household chimed in.
My male brain immediately thought this might be a useful ally.
Suddenly, it felt like one of those moments from our parenting years when the kids tried to work one parent against the other in hopes of getting their way. Helen and I had many of those parent-to-parent conversations over the years.
This one made me laugh.
I still have a long way to go with my own brain training. New habits take time. The brain eventually settles down when it realizes that the new routine isn't dangerous and may actually be beneficial.
I think the worst of this particular rebellion is now over.
My brain has accepted that sardines are going to remain on the breakfast menu for a while.
"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." — Romans 12:2
Renewing the mind is often less dramatic than we imagine. Sometimes it looks like choosing one small habit and repeating it long enough for our stubborn brains to stop protesting.
One percent better.
One can of sardines at a time.
Join me here:
https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong
Captain's Addendum
Bones: "I'm a doctor, not a sardine salesman. That smell could trigger a shipwide evacuation."
Spock: "The data suggests Captain Michael's nutritional experiment may produce favorable outcomes, Doctor."
Bones: "I still reserve the right to open a window."
Captain Michael's Reflection: Our brains don't always welcome change, even when the change is good for us. Sometimes progress begins with a small act of discipline and a willingness to endure a little discomfort. Over time, the rebellion quiets down, and a new habit takes root.
May you live long and prosper. 🖖
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