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by react_burger38 1699 days ago
You should read "Atomic Habits", by James Clear. Basically if you want to build new habits, you need to set realistic goals that you will actually do (and also have self-love, that if you don't get it done, you aren't a failure, every day and even every hour is a new hour you can do better) and then do those goals; then after you meet those goals and establish those habits, then you can move on and make that goal a little harder; or you can set goals in a different area.

Another element of this is that you need to establish when the habit will happen, and where. If you pick the same place every day, with time it becomes automatic.

Also important here is the aggregation of marginal gains - each little thing you improve in your life adds up over time to make a big difference. See this article from James Clear about this concept: https://jamesclear.com/marginal-gains.

Remember as well - as Atomic Habits mentions - the goal isn't just to do whatever your goal is; the goal isn't just the outcome; the goal is to change your very identity. A person who wants to read every day, the goal isn't just the reading itself, it is to BECOME a reader. For the person who wants to eat well and exercise, the goal isn't just to lose weight; it is to BECOME a fit, healthy person. As you form new habits every day, what you do on a daily basis becomes part of you, and those actions you take are the evidence of your new identity.

3 comments

It also mentions chaining your habits. Find something you do already every day, e.g. brushing your teeth, and then chain your meditation to that habit. After you brush your teeth, meditate for 10 minutes. That way as you are brushing your teeth, your mind will be primed to get ready to meditate afterwards.
This. "Atomic Habits" was a game changer in forming new habits for me. Especially the point of habit stacking is something that sticked with me.

I recommend the book to everyone who is interested in forming new habits or getting rid of old "bad" habits

Beautifully and succinctly captures the book's central message. Thanks!