"生活的指引不是理性，而是习俗。"

The quote suggests that our actions and decisions are more influenced by habit and routine than by logical reasoning. We might like to think that we make choices based purely on logic and careful thought, but in reality, much of what we do comes from what we're used to—our customs and the traditions we've grown up with.

Historically, this idea has been around for a while. Think back to the Enlightenment era, a time when philosophers were really big on reason as the ultimate guide. They believed that humans, through rational thought, could solve all problems. But, this quote challenges that notion, saying that no matter how much we value reason, our everyday lives are run more by ingrained habits than by conscious deliberation. It's a humbling reminder that we might not be as rational as we think.

Take a real-life example. Consider the way people eat breakfast in different parts of the world. In the United States, a typical breakfast might include cereal, eggs, or pancakes. Meanwhile, in Japan, breakfast might consist of rice, fish, and miso soup. These choices aren't made because one is more rational or healthier than the other (although some may argue about health). Instead, they're driven by what people are accustomed to. These breakfast customs have been passed down through generations, and they shape our daily routines.

So, what can you do with this piece of wisdom? First off, recognize the power of your habits. If you want to make a change in your life, start by looking at your routines. Want to get fit? Rather than relying solely on willpower or reasoning about the benefits of exercise, make working out a habit. Find a workout routine you enjoy and stick to it until it becomes second nature. The same goes for any change, whether it's getting up earlier, eating healthier, or even spending less time on your phone.

Imagine you're trying to cut down on screen time. You could reason with yourself about the negatives—eye strain, lost time, reduced productivity—but unless you change the habit, you'll likely fall back into the same patterns. Instead, set a specific time each night when you put your devices away, and replace that time with another activity you enjoy, like reading a book or going for a walk. Over time, this new routine will become your custom.

Here's a relatable story: think about Jane, who wants to become more organized. She reads all the best books on productivity and knows all the theories, but she still struggles. Why? Because her habits haven't changed. Every morning, she wakes up and checks her phone first thing, getting lost in social media. One day, Jane decides to create a new custom. She buys a journal and makes it a habit to write down her tasks for the day as soon as she wakes up. It feels awkward at first, but she sticks with it. After a while, it becomes routine, and she starts her days feeling more organized and in control.

In the end, it's our customs that shape our lives. Understanding this can be a powerful tool for making meaningful changes. So, next time you're trying to reason your way into a new habit, remember: it's not just about thinking—it's about doing and doing until it becomes second nature.