The Power of Small Incremental Changes

Dr. Laurie Marbas Podcast

In this episode, I delve into the fascinating Milgram experiment conducted by psychologist Stanley Milgram in the early 1960s. This series of social experiments measured the willingness of participants to obey authority figures, even when instructed to perform acts that conflicted with their personal conscience. The experiment revealed that a significant majority, 65%, were willing to administer the highest level of shocks to a learner, despite hearing their apparent suffering. I discuss how this experiment highlights the concept of a "slippery slope," where small incremental steps can lead individuals to perform increasingly severe actions. However, I also explore the idea of a positive slippery slope, where small, manageable steps can lead to substantial improvements in habits and lifestyle. For instance, starting with a short walk each day can eventually lead to a consistent exercise routine, or adding one vegetable to a meal can lead to healthier eating habits over time. I share my personal experience of training for a half marathon by gradually increasing my running distance each week. This method helped me build a strong foundation and significantly improve my performance. I emphasize the importance of being mindful of the small influences in our daily lives, as they can have both positive and negative impacts. Additionally, I touch on the role of technology and how it can be a double-edged sword, offering both positive and negative slippery slopes. For example, using a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) can help make better health decisions but can also lead to obsessive behavior. I encourage listeners to reflect on how they can apply the concept of a positive slippery slope in their own lives and to be mindful of the influences they allow into their daily routines. I also invite feedback on how technology impacts our lives and the lives of our children. Thank you for spending your precious time with me. I hope you found this episode helpful and thought-provoking. To work with me: https://www.drmarbas.com/ A Big Thank You To Our Sponsors: If you want to work with the best Whole Foods plant-based body recomposition coach, I highly recommend checking out what www.fitvegancoaching.com offers. I did their program and was able to lose 7% of body fat, build lean muscle, and improve my running time. As a loyal subscriber, you get $250 savings on their coaching services. To learn plant-based cooking and get your medical questions answered, join The Healing Kitchen, taught by Brittany Jaroudi and me! Click here to learn more: https://www.drmarbas.com/the-healing-kitchen