Habits run 70% of our decisions on autopilot. That's both a superpower and a trap. 

We all have routines that ground us and free up mental energy for what matters. But some habits quietly keep us stuck — repeating patterns formed long ago, in contexts that no longer exist. 

"Each time you act consistently, your brain interprets this as evidence of your identity."

This is what makes habits so powerful — and so worth examining. 

In this conversation, we explore: 

• The feedback loop between identity and habits — and why "I am a runner" outlasts "I want to run 5km"
• Why autopilot is useful until it isn't — and how childhood patterns follow us into our professional lives
• Practical strategies to build, replace, and evolve habits without being too hard on yourself
• The role of self-awareness and courage when habits become comfort zones that hold us back. 

We also get personal — Fabio's home gym born from lockdown, Anita's work on taming the advice monster, and why breaking a habit is sometimes less a behavioral challenge and more an act of courage. 

About The Catastrophe Café: 

Join Anita Aerni and Fabio Duma for honest conversations about the beautiful mess of work, life & everything in between. No polished soundbites - just real dialogue about the challenges we all face and how we make sense of them. 

Music & Editing by George Hurd 

Connect with us: 

🌐 www.fabioduma.ch 

🌐 www.anitaaerni.org 

Season 1 Episodes: 

1. Balance ✓ 

2. The Art of Slow Living ✓ 

3. Navigating Change ✓ 

4. Trust Issues & Tissues ✓ 

5. Choosing your Reality ✓ 

6. Habits: Stability or Stagnation? ✓ 

7. Navigating Relationships 

8. In Praise of Curiosity & Courage