The brain evolved to predict, and it does so by identifying patterns. When those patterns break down — as when a hiker stumbles across an easy chair sitting deep in the woods, as if dropped from the sky — the brain gropes for something, anything that makes sense. It may retreat to a familiar ritual, like checking equipment. But it may also turn its attention outward, the researchers argue, and notice, say, a pattern in animal tracks that was previously hidden. The urge to find a coherent pattern makes it more likely that the brain will find one.
Kendy Frank on 10 Dec 14For many dentists, too many marketing dollars are devoted solely to acquiring new patients. But sometimes, generating new patient appointments isn't enough. You'll also want to dedicate a portion of your marketing efforts to building loyalty among your existing patients, which leads to improved patient retention and a steady, loyal patient base in the long term
