What is *Rewire: Change Your Brain to Break Bad Habits, Overcome Addictions, Conquer Self-Destructive Behavior* about?

*Rewire* by Richard O’Connor combines neuroscience and psychology to offer a roadmap for overcoming self-destructive habits like procrastination, overeating, and addiction. The book explores how the brain’s “automatic self” drives harmful behaviors and provides evidence-based strategies—such as mindfulness, self-control, and neuroplasticity training—to rewire neural pathways for lasting change. It emphasizes addressing root causes like trauma while building healthier habits.

Who should read *Rewire: Change Your Brain to Break Bad Habits*?

This book is ideal for individuals struggling with chronic habits (procrastination, overeating, worry) or self-sabotage, as well as those interested in neuroscience-based self-improvement. Therapists, coaches, and mental health enthusiasts will also find value in its blend of clinical insights and practical exercises. O’Connor’s approach suits readers seeking actionable steps beyond traditional willpower-based methods.

Is *Rewire* by Richard O’Connor worth reading?

Yes—*Rewire* is praised for merging scientific rigor with accessible advice. It stands out by focusing on the brain’s dual systems (conscious vs. automatic) and offering concrete tools like mindfulness drills. Readers appreciate its balance of personal anecdotes, clinical expertise, and exercises to address habits at their root, making it a practical guide for sustainable behavior change.

What is the “automatic self” according to *Rewire*?

The “automatic self” refers to unconscious brain processes that drive habits and decisions, often prioritizing short-term rewards. O’Connor explains how this system, shaped by emotions and past experiences, underlies self-destructive behaviors. Retraining it requires mindfulness to recognize triggers and consciously redirect responses, leveraging neuroplasticity to build healthier neural pathways.

How does *Rewire* suggest overcoming procrastination?

*Rewire* links procrastination to fear of failure or success and the brain’s preference for immediate comfort. Strategies include breaking tasks into smaller steps, practicing self-compassion, and using mindfulness to tolerate discomfort. The book also emphasizes addressing underlying emotional triggers rather than relying on sheer willpower.

What role does mindfulness play in *Rewire*?

Mindfulness is central to recognizing automatic behaviors and creating space for intentional choices. O’Connor advocates practices like focused breathing and body scans to increase self-awareness, reduce impulsive reactions, and strengthen emotional regulation. This helps disrupt harmful habits and reinforces the brain’s capacity for change.

How does *Rewire* address overeating and addiction?

The book frames overeating and addiction as maladaptive coping mechanisms driven by the automatic self. Solutions include identifying emotional triggers (e.g., stress, boredom), substituting healthier rewards, and building self-compassion. O’Connor stresses the importance of addressing unresolved trauma or guilt to prevent relapse.

What is neuroplasticity in *Rewire*?

Neuroplasticity refers to the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections. *Rewire* explains how consistent practice of mindfulness, self-control, and positive habits can strengthen these pathways, making healthy behaviors automatic. This science-based approach offers hope for lasting change beyond temporary fixes.

Rewire Summary, PDF, EPUB, Audio

Rewire

Richard O'Connor

3.82 (1945 Reviews)

Psychology Self-growth Mindfulness

Overview

Key Takeaways

Author

FAQs

Neuroplasticity meets addiction psychology in O'Connor's groundbreaking guide. Can your brain truly rewire itself? Therapists worldwide recommend this science-backed approach that transforms self-destructive patterns. What if the key to breaking your worst habits isn't willpower, but understanding your automatic self?

Explore Your Way of Learning

Quick Summary11min

Feel the book through the author's voice

Deep Dive42min

Turn knowledge into engaging, example-rich insights

Flash Card7 insights

Capture key ideas in a flash for fast learning

Fun23min

Enjoy the book in a fun and engaging way

Best quote from Rewire

Neurons that fire together, wire together.

Explore Your Way of Learning

Rewire isn't just a book — it's a masterclass in Psychology. To help you absorb its lessons in the way that works best for you, we offer five unique learning modes. Whether you're a deep thinker, a fast learner, or a story lover, there's a mode designed to fit your style.

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Top 7 Insights from Rewire in a Nutshell

Distill Rewire into rapid-fire memory cues that highlight key principles of candor, teamwork, and creative resilience.

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From Columbia University alumni built in San Francisco

BeFreed Brings Together A Global Community Of 1,000,000 Curious Minds

See more on how BeFreed is discussed across the web

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

From Columbia University alumni built in San Francisco

BeFreed Brings Together A Global Community Of 1,000,000 Curious Minds

See more on how BeFreed is discussed across the web

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

1.5K Ratings4.7

Start your learning journey, now

Download This Summary

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Rewire

Richard O'Connor

3.82 (1945 Reviews)

Psychology Self-growth Mindfulness

Overview

Key Takeaways

Author

FAQs

Explore Your Way of Learning

Quick Summary11min

Feel the book through the author's voice

Deep Dive42min

Turn knowledge into engaging, example-rich insights

Flash Card7 insights

Capture key ideas in a flash for fast learning

Fun23min

Enjoy the book in a fun and engaging way

Best quote from Rewire

Neurons that fire together, wire together.

More Like This

6 sources

Rewire Your Brain: Science-Based Self-Help Revolution

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Nicole Vignola

6 sources

Rewire Your Brain: Science-Based Self-Help Revolution

6 sources

Rewire Your Brain: The Science of Lasting Change

Rewire: Change Your Brain to Break Bad Habits, Overcome Addictions, Conquer Self-Destruc tive Behavior

Growth Mindset: Rewiring Your Brain for Success Under Pressure

20 sources

Rewire Your Mind: The Science of Change

Cognitive Restructuring Techniques for Reframing Thoughts

6 sources

Rewire Your Brain for Success and Happiness

Rewire Your OCD Brain

Catherine M Pittman & William H. Youngs

Rewire Your Brain

John B. Arden

Key Takeaways

Breaking Free from the Chains of Self-Sabotage

00:00

Why do we keep making the same mistakes? You promise yourself you'll finally start that project, yet find yourself scrolling through social media instead. You swear off junk food, then devour an entire pizza at midnight. You know that relationship is toxic, but you stay anyway. This isn't weakness-it's neuroscience. We're operating with two distinct mental systems that often work against each other, and understanding this internal conflict is the first step toward genuine transformation. Think of your mind as hosting two separate tenants who rarely communicate effectively. Your conscious self lives in the neocortex, thoughtful and deliberate, capable of planning your future and analyzing complex problems. Meanwhile, your automatic self operates beneath awareness, efficiently handling 99% of daily functioning-breathing, heartbeat, emotional reactions, and deeply ingrained habits. This automatic system isn't just managing your bodily functions; it's making countless decisions based on unconscious motives, outdated assumptions, and denied feelings. The automatic self creates trouble through four main channels: snap judgments formed by inherent prejudices, faulty logic patterns that jump to conclusions, social influences shaping behavior without awareness, and distorted assumptions rooted in past experiences. Someone might automatically tense around authority figures due to childhood experiences, even when the current situation calls for relaxed engagement. These patterns feel natural because they've become physically embedded in your brain through repeated use.

The Neuroplasticity Revolution: Your Brain's Hidden Potential

The Invisible Architecture: How Your Mind Creates Its Own Prison

Fear and Procrastination: The Paralysis of Hidden Emotions

Anger's Disguises: When Rebellion and Perfectionism Become Self-Destruction

The Special Snowflake Syndrome: When Entitlement Breeds Destruction

The War Against Yourself: Breaking Free from Self-Hatred's Grip and Building New Pathways

Explore Your Way of Learning

Quick Summary

Rewire Summary in 11 Minutes

Break down key ideas from Rewire into bite-sized takeaways to understand how innovative teams create, collaborate, and grow.

00:00

Flash Card

Top 7 Insights from Rewire in a Nutshell

Distill Rewire into rapid-fire memory cues that highlight key principles of candor, teamwork, and creative resilience.

Fun

Rewire Lessons Told Through 23-Min Stories

Experience Rewire through vivid storytelling that turns innovation lessons into moments you'll remember and apply.

00:00

Personalize

Experience Rewire in your own way.

Ask anything, pick the voice, and co-create insights that truly resonate with you.

From Columbia University alumni built in San Francisco

BeFreed Brings Together A Global Community Of 1,000,000 Curious Minds

See more on how BeFreed is discussed across the web

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

From Columbia University alumni built in San Francisco

BeFreed Brings Together A Global Community Of 1,000,000 Curious Minds

See more on how BeFreed is discussed across the web

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

1.5K Ratings4.7

Start your learning journey, now

Download This Summary

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Rewire by Richard O'Connor Summary

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Rewire by Richard O'Connor Summary

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Similar books to Rewire

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Key Takeaways

Breaking Free from the Chains of Self-Sabotage

The Neuroplasticity Revolution: Your Brain's Hidden Potential

The Invisible Architecture: How Your Mind Creates Its Own Prison

Fear and Procrastination: The Paralysis of Hidden Emotions

Anger's Disguises: When Rebellion and Perfectionism Become Self-Destruction

The Special Snowflake Syndrome: When Entitlement Breeds Destruction

The War Against Yourself: Breaking Free from Self-Hatred's Grip and Building New Pathways

Quick Summary Mode - Read or listen to Rewire Summary in 11 Minutes

Flash Card Mode - Top 7 Insights from Rewire in a Nutshell

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More Like This

Key Takeaways

Breaking Free from the Chains of Self-Sabotage

The Neuroplasticity Revolution: Your Brain's Hidden Potential

The Invisible Architecture: How Your Mind Creates Its Own Prison

Fear and Procrastination: The Paralysis of Hidden Emotions

Anger's Disguises: When Rebellion and Perfectionism Become Self-Destruction

The Special Snowflake Syndrome: When Entitlement Breeds Destruction

The War Against Yourself: Breaking Free from Self-Hatred's Grip and Building New Pathways