💡 CheatCode #161: Label the Loop
Name the pattern while it’s happening to break it.
“Awareness precedes control.” — John Boyd
The fastest way to stop a spiral is to catch it mid-flight. Most people don’t fail because they lack discipline — they fail because they don’t recognize the loop until it’s already driven the day.
Related study:
“Affect labeling” reduces emotional intensity by engaging regulatory brain regions (Lieberman et al., 2007).
Why it works (✅):
✅ Interrupts autopilot behavior
✅ Reduces emotional heat in real time
✅ Restores choice under stress
✅ Turns reaction into observation
Today’s Challenge:
When you feel the loop start, say out loud: “This is the ___ loop.” (doomscrolling, overthinking, avoidance, anger, etc.)
Final Thought:
Awareness isn’t passive — it’s leverage. -1% CheatCode