- Distinguishing Habits from Rituals: Michael explains the crucial differences between habits and rituals, highlighting how rituals add meaning and emotional depth to our actions beyond the efficiency of habits.
- Creating Personal and Professional Rituals: He offers guidance on how to intentionally design rituals in both personal and work settings to enhance connection, satisfaction, and performance.
- Rituals in Relationships: Michael discusses the role of rituals in strengthening relationships, emphasizing their ability to foster closeness and emotional bonds.
- Rituals and Emotional Transitions: He shares insights on how rituals can aid in navigating significant life transitions, providing structure and meaning during times of change.
THE SAKARA LIFE PODCAST: EPISODE 131
Dr. Michael Norton: The Power of Rituals to Transform Your Daily Life

RELEASE DATE: APRIL 1, 2025
Danielle and Whitney sit down with Michael Norton, the Harold M. Brierley Professor of Business Administration at Harvard Business School and author of "The Ritual Effect: From Habit to Ritual, Harness the Surprising Power of Everyday Actions." Michael delves into the profound impact that rituals can have on our daily lives, relationships, and overall well-being.
An award-winning behavioral scientist and professor at Harvard Business School, Michael Norton’s research focuses on behavioral economics and well-being, with particular attention given to topics such as happiness and money, and, most recently, rituals and habits. His recent book The Ritual Effect focuses on the surprising and versatile power of rituals.
Michael Norton is a Professor of Business Administration at Harvard Business School. Dr. Norton’s research on topics ranging from the hazards of humble-bragging to the rewards of matchmaking and volunteering has been published in top academic journals as well as popular media outlets such as the Wall Street Journal, CNN, Forbes, and the New York Times. He co-authored Happy Money with Elizabeth Dunn, which was named by the Washington Post as a “Book Every Leader Should Read.” He received his Ph.D. in Social Psychology from Princeton University. Visit https://michaelnorton.com/ for additional information, video, and more.