To stop repeating the same mistake can be very challenging because people tend to stick to their habits and routines. Most people repeat the same mistakes until they learn how to avoid them. To break this cycle, we need to change how we handle the situations where we often make errors. To do this, we must understand why these mistakes keep happening.
Analyze and correct your past mistakes before they paralyze your future. An undiscovered error will always crave for repetition. Kick out errors; enjoy a bright future!
Israelmore Ayivor
For example, we quickly learn not to touch a hot stove because we get burned and remember the pain. Our brains react to this physical pain by making us avoid the mistake in the future. However, when it comes to thinking, behavior patterns, and decision-making, we often continue making mistakes. This might include being late for appointments, procrastinating, or making snap judgments about people. Understanding the causes of these errors can help us find new ways to approach and correct them. More: The power of sincere gratitude
How do we fall into the trap of repeating the same mistake?
We only see parts of the world and often focus on repeating patterns, even if they aren’t there. Our brains simplify information by generalizing and categorizing, creating a version of reality that fits our existing beliefs. We use shortcuts to make quick decisions based on limited information, filling in gaps with what we already know.
Our brains prefer to stick with familiar patterns because changing these mental shortcuts requires a lot of effort. As a result, we often repeat the same behaviors and mistakes, even when we are aware of them. This tendency is called confirmation bias—our inclination to reinforce what we already believe instead of adjusting our thinking with new information and ideas. More: Fix your codependency if you want to build healthy relationships
The role of gut instinct and ego in repeating mistakes
We often rely on “gut instinct”—a subconscious form of thinking based on our past experiences—when making judgments and decisions. This automatic thinking can lead us to repeat certain behaviors and mistakes.
Sometimes, we stick with familiar behaviors because of an “ego effect.” This means we cling to our existing beliefs and seek out information that supports them, protecting our ego. For example, people are more likely to repeat behaviors that led to past successes when reminded of those successes. However, when they are aware of past failures, they are less likely to change their behavior patterns, even if those patterns lead to failure. More: Discover the strength and beauty in embracing your years
Thinking about past failures can make us feel down, leading us to stick with behaviors that are comforting and familiar. Even when we try to think things through carefully, our brains tend to favor old habits and information, whether or not they result in mistakes. This tendency is known as familiarity bias. More: Are our perceptions influenced by our values?
Using cognitive control to overcome repeating the same mistake
We have a mental ability called “cognitive control” that can help us override quick, automatic thinking. Recent studies on mice have shown us which parts of the brain are involved in this process. Researchers found two brain regions in the frontal cortex with “self-error monitoring neurons” that track our mistakes. These areas help us refocus and learn from errors. Understanding these brain processes could lead to better treatments for conditions like Alzheimer’s, where maintaining cognitive control is crucial for well-being.
Even if we don’t fully understand these brain functions, there are simpler steps we can take. One key approach is to become more comfortable with making mistakes. Society often views failure negatively, causing us to feel ashamed and hide our errors. However, feeling guilty or trying to conceal mistakes makes it more likely that we’ll repeat them.
When we accept our mistakes without harsh self-criticism, we are better at learning and improving. Taking breaks from tasks we want to master can also help. Reflecting on our failures and taking time away can reduce the tendency to repeat mistakes, helping us to avoid reinforcing bad habits. More: Self-Care: Why spa visits are essential for well-being?
