How rituals help us
I’m writing this in early October and, in many parts of that country, that signals the beginning of cooler weather. In Los Angeles – much like the rest of the year – we’ve got a week’s worth of 86 degrees and you can barely tell it’s fall. Native Angelenos can probably pick up on the subtleties of the changing seasons, but as a Midwestern-bred used to subzero temperatures, I’m a little slower.
The weather helps us know what time of year it is, helps us mark the passage of time. It’s an organic ritual symbolizing harvest (among other things). And this got me thinking about the importance rituals play in my life.
A ritual is defined as “a predefined sequence of symbolic actions often characterized by formality and repetition that lacks direct instrumental purpose.” In the absence of changing SoCal weather, I use other rituals to mark the time and to symbolize meaningful things in my life. I’ve got a set of albums I only listen to in October and November. I won’t let myself listen to them at other times of the year. They’re as predictable as the weather getting cooler. Does it make me better at my job? Or make me a better husband? Not intrinsically. It’s just a silly thing I do. But it also brings me comfort and symbolizes a quieter, self-reflective period. I’ve got this weird annual ritual, but many I also perform every day.
Science says performing rituals eases anxiety. Particularly in times of uncertainty, rituals offer a sense of control and familiarity that can help de-stress the practitioner. Some might argue that that’s just a false sense of security. I might argue back that if I can walk into a situation feeling slightly more at ease, then that gives me better positioning to do my best.
Rituals don’t have to be performed alone. In fact, studies also point to team rituals strengthening the team’s connection and collaborative efforts. At work, a Friday digital or in-person lunch can go a long way.
Are rituals a make-or-break thing? Probably not. But I also bet you weren’t looking for them before. This week, I encourage you to observe what your rituals are throughout the day, when you wake up, before heading into an important meeting. If you find yourself anxious, try taking the edge off with a new or favorite ritual. Listen to a song, write your name a bunch of times, fill up your water bottle. If you can positively affect your mindset, you can often positively affect your outcomes.
Go get ‘em this week.