There are a lot of positive benefits of establishing a habit and then putting it on autopilot.

I’ve gotten into a habit of walking a few miles along the river each morning before I start my work day. It’s not something I really have to think about doing now as it’s become muscle memory at this point.

However, operating on autopilot isn’t always positive. Take, for example, how my hand somehow seems to find its way into the leftover bag of Starburst in our pantry everytime I encounter it.

It’s a good idea to review from time to time what we’ve put on autopilot and see if any adjustments might be needed.

It could be as simple as throwing out the bag of Starburst. But oftentimes there is a more impactful realization to be found…

What is something you put on autopilot that served you well in the past but now needs to be adjusted or perhaps is just no longer needed?

One financial example might be around budgeting. 

If you’ve been diligent about your budgeting for a long time, the idea of “letting go of the reins” a bit might seem terrifying. But if your habit of tracking every single expense is causing unnecessary marital discord when you’re already living well within your means, perhaps it’s time to revisit and adjust your approach given your current reality.

So make some time this summer to do a quick review of all the things you do on autopilot. 

What’s still working and what might be overdue for an adjustment?

Sometimes simply taking the time to notice can make all the difference.