Navigating life successfully requires more than just staying afloat; it’s about steering clear of certain behaviors that can put us on autopilot, limiting our growth.

The key is awareness. Often, we fall into patterns without realizing it, doing things just because that’s the way they’ve always been done.

But those who truly thrive in life know better. They dodge these 9 autopilot behaviors that can keep us stuck in a rut.

Below, I’ll share with you these 10 behaviors that successful people tend to avoid. These insights may just be the wake-up call you need to start living more intentionally.

1) Mindless scrolling

In the digital age, it’s incredibly easy to fall into the trap of mindless scrolling. Whether it’s social media, news sites, or random internet surfing – we’ve all been there.

Successful people, however, are highly conscious of how they spend their time. They understand that every minute spent on unproductive activities is a minute lost from achieving their goals.

Mindless scrolling can also negatively impact our mental health, leading to feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and depression.

So those who thrive in life usually make a conscious effort to limit their screen time, focusing instead on activities that add true value to their lives.

It might not be easy to quit this habit, but by being more aware and intentional about your time online, you can take a big step towards living a more meaningful and fulfilling life.

2) Procrastination

Procrastination is another autopilot behavior that successful people tend to avoid. It’s that urge to put off tasks that seem difficult or overwhelming, only to end up in a last-minute frenzy.

I remember when I used to constantly put off my workout sessions. I would tell myself, “I’ll do it tomorrow,” but tomorrow would come and go, and I would find another excuse.

But then, I realized something. Each time I procrastinated on my workouts, I was not only putting my health on the back burner but also feeding a habit of postponing things that mattered.

I decided to change. Now, instead of waiting for the ‘perfect’ time, I just start. It’s not always easy, but with each small step, I feel more empowered and in control.

Those who thrive in life understand that the only way to get things done is by doing them. They don’t wait for motivation to strike; they initiate action and let the momentum build up over time.

3) Neglecting sleep

While it might seem like a badge of honor to function on minimal sleep, it’s actually a detrimental habit that can impact various aspects of your life.

Sleep deprivation can lead to numerous health issues like heart disease, diabetes and even reduce your life expectancy. Furthermore, it impairs cognition, mood, and overall performance.

Successful people understand the importance of a good night’s rest. They prioritize sleep, recognizing that it is essential for their wellbeing and productivity.

Avoiding the autopilot behavior of neglecting sleep allows us to be more alert, make better decisions, and ultimately thrive in life.

4) Ignoring self-care

In the hustle and bustle of life, it’s easy to put self-care on the back burner. We often prioritize work, family, and social obligations over our own needs.

However, those who thrive in life understand that neglecting self-care is a recipe for burnout. They know that in order to take care of others and meet their responsibilities, they first need to take care of themselves.

This might mean setting aside time each day for exercise, eating nutritious meals, practicing mindfulness or simply doing something they love.

By prioritizing self-care, they’re able to maintain their physical and mental well-being, which in turn allows them to be more productive and successful in all other areas of life.

5) Settling for comfort

Comfort zones are cozy places. They’re familiar, predictable, and… well, comfortable. But staying in your comfort zone can also lead to stagnation.

People who thrive in life understand that growth often requires stepping out of their comfort zones. They’re not afraid to take risks, try new things, or face potential failure.

They view challenges as opportunities to learn and grow, rather than as threats. And while it might be uncomfortable at first, they know that pushing their boundaries is a necessary part of personal and professional growth.

So instead of settling for comfort, they continually strive for improvement and progression. This habit helps them to keep growing, evolving, and making the most of their lives.

6) Neglecting relationships

In the pursuit of success, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters – our relationships with the people we care about.

We often get so caught up in our work and ambitions that we forget to invest time in nurturing our personal relationships. But life is not just about accomplishments and milestones; it’s also about love, connection, and shared experiences.

People who thrive in life understand this. They cherish their relationships and make a conscious effort to nurture them. They take the time to listen, show empathy, and express their love and appreciation for their loved ones.

No matter how busy life gets, they make sure to prioritize their relationships. Because at the end of the day, it’s not what we have in life, but who we have in our lives that matters.

7) Avoiding difficult conversations

There was a time when I would do almost anything to avoid a tough conversation. It seemed easier to sweep things under the rug than face potential conflict or discomfort. But I learned the hard way that avoiding difficult conversations only leads to more problems down the line.

People who thrive in life understand the importance of open and honest communication, even when it’s uncomfortable. They don’t shy away from difficult conversations; instead, they approach them with tact, honesty, and respect.

While it may be challenging, facing these conversations head-on can lead to deeper understanding, stronger relationships, and personal growth. It’s not an easy habit to develop, but it’s certainly a worthwhile one.

8) Overcommitting

In an effort to please everyone and meet every expectation, we often find ourselves saying ‘yes’ to everything. But overcommitting can lead to stress, burnout, and a general sense of being overwhelmed.

Those who thrive in life recognize the importance of saying ‘no.’ They understand their limits and prioritize their time and energy on things that align with their values and goals.

By saying ‘no’ to less important or non-essential tasks, they can focus more on the things that truly matter. This not only boosts their productivity but also ensures they have time for self-care and relaxation.

Learning to say ‘no’ might be tough initially, but it’s crucial for maintaining balance and preventing burnout.

9) Neglecting personal growth

Personal growth is a lifelong journey. No matter how much we’ve achieved or how far we’ve come, there’s always room for improvement.

Those who thrive in life understand this. They never stop learning, growing, and striving to be better. They’re always open to new ideas, perspectives, and experiences.

They invest time in reading, learning new skills, gaining new experiences, and reflecting on their actions and decisions. They see every day as an opportunity to learn and grow.

This commitment to continuous personal growth not only leads to success but also fosters a sense of fulfillment and purpose in life.

Final thoughts

At the heart of avoiding these autopilot behaviors lies one fundamental truth – the power of conscious choice.

Every decision we make, every habit we foster, shapes who we are and the life we lead. When we move through life on autopilot, we surrender that power, letting circumstance and routine dictate our path.

But those who thrive in life actively choose to take control. They consciously decide to break free from these autopilot behaviors, to nurture growth, and to prioritize what truly matters.

Whether it’s resisting the allure of mindless scrolling, prioritizing sleep, or embracing difficult conversations – it all comes down to making a deliberate choice.

Life isn’t something that just happens to us; it’s something we actively shape through our choices and actions.

And remember, it’s never too late to start. Each day is a fresh opportunity to break free from autopilot and start consciously directing your life towards growth and fulfillment.

Take a moment to reflect on these behaviors. Are there any you recognize in your own life? What steps can you take today to start reclaiming control?

Your journey towards a thriving life is in your hands. Choose wisely.