Kyra Bobinet's Blog

In her recent Forbes article, Dr. Kyra Bobinet, CEO and Founder of Fresh Tri, challenges the conventional wisdom of achieving success through rigid performance-based goals. Dr. Bobinet shines a light on the limitations of the Performance Mindset, advocating for a shift towards embracing an Iterative Mindset instead.

The Performance Mindset, characterized by the pursuit of Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-Bound (SMART) goals, often leads individuals into a cycle of rigid expectations and demoralizing setbacks. Dr. Bobinet illustrates this with a vivid example of someone striving to lose weight, only to encounter unforeseen obstacles that derail progress and trigger feelings of defeat.

Central to this discussion is the concept of the “habenula hijack.” Dr. Bobinet explains how the brain’s habenula, a structure sensitive to failure and disappointment, can activate and dampen motivation when faced with setbacks under the weight of rigid goals. This psychological phenomenon, exacerbated by the pursuit of SMART goals, can breed cynicism and resignation.

Drawing from her experiences, Dr. Bobinet narrates the compelling story of Maya, whose gymnastic ambitions were overshadowed by unattainable expectations. This cautionary tale underscores the human toll exacted by the relentless pursuit of perfection in performance-based paradigms.

However, Dr. Bobinet offers a transformative alternative—the Iterative Mindset. Instead of fixating on narrowly defined objectives, she encourages individuals to view setbacks as opportunities for growth and adaptation. Iteration, characterized by cycles of experimentation and adaptation, aligns with the brain’s natural inclinations and fosters sustained habit change.

Research conducted by Dr. Bobinet and her team underscores the power of embracing an Iterative Mindset. By reframing setbacks as valuable learning experiences rather than insurmountable failures, individuals can navigate the complexities of personal development with resilience and optimism.

In a world characterized by constant change, Dr. Bobinet’s insights challenge the prevailing narrative of success defined by rigid performance metrics. Through iteration, individuals can harness the brain’s natural inclinations and chart a course towards sustainable growth and fulfillment.

To read more about Dr. Kyra Bobinet’s revolutionary approach to unlocking success through iteration, visit her recent Forbes article and discover how embracing an Iterative Mindset can transform your journey towards personal and professional excellence.

In her recent Forbes article, Dr. Kyra Bobinet, CEO and Founder of Fresh Tri, challenges the conventional wisdom of achieving success through rigid performance-based goals. Dr. Bobinet shines a light on the limitations of the Performance Mindset, advocating for a shift towards embracing an Iterative Mindset instead.

The Performance Mindset, characterized by the pursuit of Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-Bound (SMART) goals, often leads individuals into a cycle of rigid expectations and demoralizing setbacks. Dr. Bobinet illustrates this with a vivid example of someone striving to lose weight, only to encounter unforeseen obstacles that derail progress and trigger feelings of defeat.

Central to this discussion is the concept of the “habenula hijack.” Dr. Bobinet explains how the brain’s habenula, a structure sensitive to failure and disappointment, can activate and dampen motivation when faced with setbacks under the weight of rigid goals. This psychological phenomenon, exacerbated by the pursuit of SMART goals, can breed cynicism and resignation.

Drawing from her experiences, Dr. Bobinet narrates the compelling story of Maya, whose gymnastic ambitions were overshadowed by unattainable expectations. This cautionary tale underscores the human toll exacted by the relentless pursuit of perfection in performance-based paradigms.

However, Dr. Bobinet offers a transformative alternative—the Iterative Mindset. Instead of fixating on narrowly defined objectives, she encourages individuals to view setbacks as opportunities for growth and adaptation. Iteration, characterized by cycles of experimentation and adaptation, aligns with the brain’s natural inclinations and fosters sustained habit change.

Research conducted by Dr. Bobinet and her team underscores the power of embracing an Iterative Mindset. By reframing setbacks as valuable learning experiences rather than insurmountable failures, individuals can navigate the complexities of personal development with resilience and optimism.

In a world characterized by constant change, Dr. Bobinet’s insights challenge the prevailing narrative of success defined by rigid performance metrics. Through iteration, individuals can harness the brain’s natural inclinations and chart a course towards sustainable growth and fulfillment.

To read more about Dr. Kyra Bobinet’s revolutionary approach to unlocking success through iteration, visit her recent Forbes article and discover how embracing an Iterative Mindset can transform your journey towards personal and professional excellence.

Recently, Dr. Kyra Bobinet shared some eye-opening insights during a podcast interview on The Virtual Brain Health Center’s Let’s Talk Brain Health Podcast. In this discussion, Dr. Bobinet dove into the profound concept of the “know-do gap,” shedding light on its implications for our everyday lives and unveiling strategies to bridge this divide effectively.

The Know-do Gap: Unveiling the Discrepancy

As a seasoned physician, Dr. Bobinet keenly observed the pervasive existence of the know-do gap among her patients, prompting her to embark on a quest to unravel its complexities. The know-do gap, as she elucidates, encapsulates the disconcerting chasm between our awareness of what we should do and our actual behavioral execution.

Take, for instance, the universally acknowledged understanding that reducing sugar intake and engaging in physical activity are conducive to well-being. Despite this awareness, a palpable disparity persists between knowing these facts and translating them into tangible actions.

The Habenula: Unraveling the Enigma

Central to Dr. Bobinet’s exploration of the know-do gap is the habenula, a pivotal determinant of human behavior. With its far-reaching influence extending across realms such as depression, motivation, addiction, and learned helplessness, the habenula assumes a position of unparalleled significance. Driven by two primary functions, it first detects thoughts of failure, whether they reside within the conscious or subconscious realm. Subsequently, upon discerning these signals of failure, it ruthlessly stifles motivation, ensnaring individuals in a paralyzing cycle of inaction.

Navigating the Know-do Gap Maze: The Iterative Mindset Method

In response to the formidable challenge posed by the habenula’s sway, Dr. Bobinet introduces the transformative Iterative Mindset Method as a beacon of hope. Rooted in the principles of practice, assess, and tweak, this revolutionary approach heralds a paradigm shift in the realm of behavior change and habit formation.

Drawing from her extensive research on individuals who achieved sustained weight loss, Dr. Bobinet unveils a striking revelation: the common thread among these success stories lies in their relentless commitment to iteration. Eschewing the confines of rigid, predetermined goals, these individuals embrace a fluid process of continual refinement, seamlessly transitioning from one modality to the next in pursuit of optimal outcomes. In this iterative journey, failure ceases to be a terminal destination but rather emerges as a catalyst for growth and evolution.

The Performance Predicament: Rethinking Conventional Methods

A critical juncture in Dr. Bobinet’s discourse centers on the limitations of conventional performance-based methodologies, such as calorie counting, step tracking, and adherence to SMART goals. While designed to foster progress and accountability, these rigid frameworks unwittingly trigger the habenula’s alarm bells, perpetuating a cycle of demotivation and disillusionment.

Embracing a New Paradigm

Dr. Bobinet’s insights herald a call for a radical reimagining of our approach to behavior change and habit formation. By transcending the limitations of the know-do gap and embracing the liberating ethos of iteration, we empower ourselves to chart a course towards self-actualization and sustainable health and wellness. Armed with the transformative Iterative Mindset Method, we stand poised to unlock the full spectrum of our potential, transcending the confines of neurobiological determinism and embracing a future defined by boundless possibility and unfettered growth.

To dive deeper into Dr. Kyra Bobinet’s groundbreaking insights and embark on your own journey of transformation, listen to the full podcast here.

Are you feeling constantly tired and drained? In today’s fast-paced world, exhaustion has become a common experience for many of us. From students to professionals, a pervasive sense of fatigue seems to plague society. But what’s really causing this widespread weariness?

In a recent Forbes article, Dr. Kyra Bobinet reveals not only the crux of this widespread phenomenon but the solution as well.

The Cause—the habenula

In the article, Dr. Bobinet sheds light on a tiny but powerful region in your brain called the habenula. Acting as a “failure detector” and a motivation kill switch, the habenula kicks in whenever we perceive failure or disappointment. This activation suppresses our intrinsic motivation circuits, leaving us feeling depleted and lacking energy.

What Can Trigger the Habenula?

Social Media

Social Media is a drain on your brain and has a direct impact on your energy levels. Late-night scrolling through social feeds can flood your brain with anxiety, FOMO, and unrealistic standards, triggering your habenula and disrupting your sleep patterns. The result? Waking up feeling unrefreshed and unmotivated, setting the tone for a day with an energy deficit.

Constant Performance Pressure

The pressure to constantly perform drains your energy reserves. In today’s digital age, we’re always accessible and “on,” leaving little room for true rest and recovery. Authentic self-expression takes a backseat to meeting others’ expectations, creating an exhausting cycle that leaves us feeling drained.

Pandemic Losses and Chronic Stress

The ambiguous losses and chronic stress brought on by the pandemic have compounded the issue of exhaustion. With shattered social norms and increased health concerns, many are grappling with grief and heightened stress levels, further depleting our energy.

Reclaiming Vitality

Knowing what is causing our fatigue is only half the battle. In the article, Dr. Bobinet also offers practical steps to break free from fatigue and restore vitality:

Step 1: Set Technology Boundaries: Start by setting firm boundaries with technology, especially before bedtime. Avoid triggering your habenula with negative social media content, comparisons, or disappointments. Instead, focus on uplifting content like gratitude or affirmations to pave the way for restorative sleep.Step 2: Carve Out Daily “Hideaways”: Prioritize moments of solitude and self-care throughout your day. Create “hideaways” where you can retreat from the chaos and recharge, even if only for a few minutes. Self-reflection and self-care are essential for maintaining energy levels.Step 3: Embrace Embodied Reality Resets: Connect with nature and real-world relationships to counteract virtual world burnout. Grounding yourself in physical reality and meaningful connections provides a much-needed energetic reset.Step 4: Cultivate an Iterative Mindset: Approach positive lifestyle changes with an iterative mindset. Instead of striving for perfection, view each attempt as an opportunity for growth and improvement. Focus on progress rather than outcomes to build resilience and stay motivated.Waking Up Our World

With intention and practice, you can reclaim your energy from the clutches of the habenula. By understanding the biological forces driving exhaustion, you can consciously craft a lifestyle that supports your well-being and models sustainability for the collective.

Take the first step towards reclaiming your energy and waking up your world. Dive deeper into these insights and learn how to revitalize your energy by reading the full Forbes article here.

Recently, Dr. Kyra Bobinet shared her expertise on Charmhealth’s Digital Health Disruptors podcast, shedding light on the transformative role of her company, Fresh Tri, in shaping sustainable health and wellness habits. Below is a brief recap of some key topics discussed. Be sure to check out the full podcast for more!

Understanding Fresh Tri 

Dr. Bobinet introduced Fresh Tri as a pioneering health and wellness technology company. Unlike other apps, Fresh Tri prioritizes aligning with our brains rather than battling against them. By considering the habenula brain region, Fresh Tri aims to support individuals in achieving lasting health and wellness through healthy behavior change and habit formation.

Deciphering the Habenula 

Though quite a small area in the brain, according to Dr. Bobinet’s extensive research, the habenula is arguably the most powerful determinant of behavior to date. When in pursuit of something, such as a habit or goal, the habenula does two things:

The habenula detects conscious or unconscious notions of failure.If failure is detected, the habenula kills our motivation to continue in effort. 

With the habenula in mind, Fresh Tri is designed to prevent, mitigate, and reframe failure to avoid firing the habenula. How does Fresh Tri do this?

The Iterative Mindset Method

Central to Fresh Tri’s approach is the concept of iteration. Rather than sticking to rigid routines, individuals are encouraged to adapt and refine their habits over time. This iterative process fosters sustainability by allowing for continual assessment and improvement. Who wants to eat the same diet for the rest of their lives? The key to sustainability is iteration. 

Fresh Tri versus Noom 

Dr. Bobinet highlighted a clear distinction between Fresh Tri and other wellness apps, notably Noom. While many apps rely on fixed SMART goals and tracking mechanisms, Fresh Tri takes a different approach, advocating for iteration. Instead of setting rigid goals, Fresh Tri encourages individuals to adapt and refine their habits over time. This avoids the common pitfall of triggering the habenula through perceived failure, allowing users to maintain motivation and dedication to their wellness journey.

Traditional performative-based apps, programs, and diets may show initial success, but they often lack sustainability. This is because they tend to trigger the habenula when goals aren’t met, leading to feelings of failure and decreased motivation. For instance, failing to meet a step goal or exceeding a calorie limit can evoke thoughts of inadequacy, dampening our resolve. Consider how many times you may have attempted such programs, only to encounter setbacks or relapses. The key to long-term success lies in iteration—constantly refining and adapting our approach to achieve sustainable results.

In conclusion, Dr. Kyra Bobinet’s insights underscore Fresh Tri’s innovative approach to fostering long-term wellness. By embracing the power of iteration and understanding the nuances of the habenula, Fresh Tri offers a path toward sustainable health and wellness habits. So, the next time you embark on your wellness journey, remember the importance of adaptation and watch as lasting habits take root for a healthier, happier you.

Listen to the full podcast here.

Recently, Dr. Kyra Bobinet shared her expertise on Charmhealth’s Digital Health Disruptors podcast, shedding light on the transformative role of her company, Fresh Tri, in shaping sustainable health and wellness habits. Below is a brief recap of some key topics discussed. Be sure to check out the full podcast for more!

Understanding Fresh Tri 

Dr. Bobinet introduced Fresh Tri as a pioneering health and wellness technology company. Unlike other apps, Fresh Tri prioritizes aligning with our brains rather than battling against them. By considering the habenula brain region, Fresh Tri aims to support individuals in achieving lasting health and wellness through healthy behavior change and habit formation.

Deciphering the Habenula 

Though quite a small area in the brain, according to Dr. Bobinet’s extensive research, the habenula is arguably the most powerful determinant of behavior to date. When in pursuit of something, such as a habit or goal, the habenula does two things:

The habenula detects conscious or unconscious notions of failure.If failure is detected, the habenula kills our motivation to continue in effort. 

With the habenula in mind, Fresh Tri is designed to prevent, mitigate, and reframe failure to avoid firing the habenula. How does Fresh Tri do this?

The Iterative Mindset Method

Central to Fresh Tri’s approach is the concept of iteration. Rather than sticking to rigid routines, individuals are encouraged to adapt and refine their habits over time. This iterative process fosters sustainability by allowing for continual assessment and improvement. Who wants to eat the same diet for the rest of their lives? The key to sustainability is iteration. 

Fresh Tri versus Noom 

Dr. Bobinet highlighted a clear distinction between Fresh Tri and other wellness apps, notably Noom. While many apps rely on fixed SMART goals and tracking mechanisms, Fresh Tri takes a different approach, advocating for iteration. Instead of setting rigid goals, Fresh Tri encourages individuals to adapt and refine their habits over time. This avoids the common pitfall of triggering the habenula through perceived failure, allowing users to maintain motivation and dedication to their wellness journey.

Traditional performative-based apps, programs, and diets may show initial success, but they often lack sustainability. This is because they tend to trigger the habenula when goals aren’t met, leading to feelings of failure and decreased motivation. For instance, failing to meet a step goal or exceeding a calorie limit can evoke thoughts of inadequacy, dampening our resolve. Consider how many times you may have attempted such programs, only to encounter setbacks or relapses. The key to long-term success lies in iteration—constantly refining and adapting our approach to achieve sustainable results.

In conclusion, Dr. Kyra Bobinet’s insights underscore Fresh Tri’s innovative approach to fostering long-term wellness. By embracing the power of iteration and understanding the nuances of the habenula, Fresh Tri offers a path toward sustainable health and wellness habits. So, the next time you embark on your wellness journey, remember the importance of adaptation and watch as lasting habits take root for a healthier, happier you.

Listen to the full podcast here.

Dr. Kyra Bobinet recently shared her insights on the CareMinds podcast with Daniel Drachov.

The Know-do Gap: Understanding Our Struggles

Have you ever wondered why we often falter on our commitments to eat better or exercise regularly? Dr. Bobinet identifies this global challenge as the Know-Do Gap—a frustrating gap between knowing what to do and actually doing it. Drawing from cutting-edge neuroscience, she unveils the root cause behind this perplexing phenomenon.

The Habenula: A Key Player in Behavior

The habenula is a small yet mighty brain region that emerges as a potent influencer of our actions. This neural hotspot reacts swiftly whenever we perceive failure, whether consciously or subconsciously, to include feelings of disappointment, demoralization, frustration, and “been there done that” thinking.

Decoding Performance Pressure

Dr. Bobinet exposes the downside of performance-driven approaches prevalent in today’s society. Traditional goal-setting methods, while seemingly effective, inadvertently activate the habenula, dampening our motivation when setbacks inevitably occur.

Embracing Iteration: A Path to Sustainable Change

The antidote to this cycle of frustration lies in the Iterative Mindset Method—a continuous process of refining and adapting our behaviors. By adopting an iterative mindset, individuals can sidestep the pitfalls of the Know-Do Gap, turning setbacks into opportunities for growth.

Fresh Tri’s Approach: Putting Iteration into Practice

Dr. Bobinet highlights the app’s, Fresh Tri’s, emphasis on iterative strategies, empowering users to tailor their wellness journey to their unique needs. Through constant tweaking and adjustment, individuals can silence their habenulas and forge sustainable habits.

Three Tips for Lasting TransformationApproach as Practice: Shift your mindset from rigid goals to flexible experiments.Manage Failure: Neutralize thoughts of failure by reframing setbacks as learning experiences.Embrace Iteration: Remember, iteration is the key to continuous progress—there’s no such thing as failure, only opportunities to iterate and improve.

Listen to the full podcast episode here.

In today’s fast-paced world, addiction has become an all-too-common struggle. Whether it’s alcohol, food, gambling, or even our smartphones, many of us find ourselves trapped in the cycle of addiction.

In a recent article on Forbes titled “Everyone Is Addicted Right Now: There’s New Hope for Us All,” Dr. Kyra Bobinet shared her personal journey of grappling with addiction, particularly to her smartphone. Despite her background in health behavioral research and mindfulness practices, she found herself increasingly tethered to her device, unable to break free from its grip.

What Drives Addiction

What drives this addiction? According to neuroscience, our brains react to smartphone notifications in the same way they respond to love and affection. The constant stimulation from our devices triggers the brain’s habenula, leading to cravings and withdrawal symptoms akin to those experienced with substance addiction.

There Is Hope

But there is hope. Groundbreaking research into the brain’s mechanisms of addiction offers new insights and strategies for overcoming these challenges. One such approach gaining traction is “dopamine fasting,” a practice aimed at breaking the cycle of dopamine-driven behaviors.

For Dr. Bobinet, understanding the role of the habenula in her addiction has been empowering. Rather than succumbing to feelings of guilt or shame, she has been able to experiment with different techniques to manage her smartphone use. From deleting news apps to deliberately distancing herself from her device, each step helps alleviate the cravings and withdrawal symptoms associated with addiction.

You Are Not Alone

If you’re struggling with addiction, know that you’re not alone. There is hope, and there are resources available to support you on your journey to recovery. Together, let’s break free from the cycle of addiction and embrace a healthier, more balanced lifestyle.

Read the full Forbes article here.

Dr. Kyra Bobinet recently graced The Mandy Connell Show on iHeart Radio, offering a wealth of insightful discussions across a wide range of topics. From shedding light on the intricacies of the habenula and unveiling strategies to bridge the Know-do-Gap to sharing intriguing perspectives gleaned from the world of the Super Bowl, Dr. Bobinet shared with listeners her groundbreaking neuroscience and research findings.

Understanding the Habenula

In her interview, Dr. Bobinet shed light on the habenula, a recently discovered, yet powerful area of the brain. This quarter-inch area in the brain stands out as one of the most influential behavior regulators known to date. The habenula intricately impacts our dopamine reward systems, emotional well-being encompassing depression and anxiety, as well as fundamental functions like eating, sleeping, and most importantly, motivation. It operates as a dual-function mechanism, detecting failure while simultaneously dampening our motivation whenever such failure is perceived.

The Dual Nature of the Habenula

While the habenula may seem like a villain in our cognitive landscape, Dr. Bobinet reminds us of its evolutionary purpose. Let’s travel back to our younger years. Do you remember that reflex that prevented us from touching the hot stove for a second time after being burned the first time? That was in fact, the habenula. The habenula has safeguarded our ancestors and continues to shape our behaviors today, steering us away from harmful actions, decisions, and addictions.

Navigating the Know-do-Gap

The Know-do-Gap, a common phenomenon where we know what to do but struggle to act upon it, was something Dr. Bobinet, Mandy, and listeners alike could relate to. This gap, fueled by the activation of the habenula, manifests in various aspects of life, from health and fitness endeavors to professional pursuits. Recognizing this gap is the first step towards bridging it.

Insights from the Super Bowl

Drawing parallels from sports, Dr. Bobinet highlighted how athletes like Brock Purdy, the 49ers quarterback, have mastered the art of overcoming their habenula. By iterating and refining their approaches despite setbacks, these athletes demonstrate resilience in the face of adversity. In high-stakes competitions like the Super Bowl, the activation of the habenula can significantly impact team performance and the result of a game. It’s not uncommon to witness one team exerting dominance, effectively triggering the opposing team’s habenula. Once the sense of failure or impending loss sets in for a team, bouncing back becomes a formidable challenge, given the activation of their habenula. Could this psychological phenomenon have contributed to the 49ers’ performance?

Quieting the Habenula: Strategies for Success

So now we know that the goal is to keep the habenula quiet. But how do we do that? Dr. Bobinet offered practical strategies for keeping the habenula at bay. Don’t think you failed in the first place. And if you do think you failed, quickly reframe your mindset into some other narrative so that you can keep going.

Whether reframing perceived failures or maintaining a positive narrative, individuals can proactively manage their mindset to avoid triggering the habenula. Dr. Bobinet’s forthcoming book, “Unstoppable Brain,” promises further insights into behavior change and habit formation, advocating for an iterative approach to success.

Listen to the full interview here.

Are you familiar with the feeling of putting things off until the last minute? Do you find yourself lacking motivation, even when you know exactly what needs to be done? If so, you’re not alone. The secret is, it’s not you. It’s your brain!

In a recent blog post on Forbes, titled “Five Ways To Increase Your Motivation Right Now,” Dr. Kyra Bobinet shares her personal journey of overcoming procrastination and reigniting motivation. Drawing from her background in behavioral science, she uncovers the root cause behind our tendency to procrastinate and outlines five effective strategies to break free from this cycle.

Let’s dive into these strategies:

Focus on Progress: Instead of fixating on perfection, celebrate incremental progress. Remember, “Practice Makes Progress”! By acknowledging the steps you’ve taken, no matter how small, you can fuel your motivation and keep moving forward.Reframe the Past: Learn from past failures and reframe them as valuable learning experiences. Rather than dwelling on setbacks, view them as stepping stones toward success. By shifting your mindset, you can overcome the fear of failure and embrace new opportunities.Boost Inspiration: Surround yourself with sources of inspiration that resonate with you. Whether it’s motivational quotes, uplifting music, or supportive communities, find what inspires you and incorporate it into your daily life.Connect With Others: Human connection is essential for motivation and accountability. Engage with like-minded individuals, join supportive communities, and enlist the help of friends and family members on your journey towards wellness.Find Traction: Experiment with different approaches until you find what works best for you. Whether it’s making small changes (iterations) to your habits or seeking out new opportunities, take action and iterate until you regain momentum.

By implementing these strategies, you can hack your habenula and reclaim your motivation. Remember, setbacks are a natural part of the journey, but with perseverance and iteration, you can overcome them.

Read the full article and learn more about these strategies here.