As I embark on the new year, I can't help but reflect on the changes I want to make in 2023. One thing that has really stuck with me is the idea of "atomic habits" – small, incremental changes that can lead to significant improvements over time, of course this idea comes from the book by James Clear sharing the same name. In this blog post, I'll share some of the insights I've gained from the book and offer some ideas for new year's resolutions that involve building good habits and breaking bad ones. Whether you're looking to improve your health, learn a new skill, or simply be more productive, establishing new habits can be a powerful way to make positive changes in the new year. So let's make 2023 the year we set some goals and build the habits that will help us become the best version of ourselves!
The concepts I will describe now comes from the book and provide a framework for building good habits and breaking bad ones. I picked the 4 strategies I liked the most in my order of preference:
Habit stacking: This involves pairing a new habit with an existing habit, such as reading for 20 minutes after breakfast every morning.
The two-minute rule: This involves starting a new habit with a very small, manageable goal, such as doing two minutes of exercise every day. Once the habit is established, the goal can be gradually increased.
The four laws of behavior change: These laws, which are based on scientific research, include making a habit obvious, attractive, easy, and satisfying. By focusing on these four factors, it can be easier to build good habits and break bad ones.
The habit loop: Clear suggests that all habits follow a similar pattern, known as the habit loop. This loop consists of a cue, a routine, and a reward. By identifying the cue and reward associated with a habit, and replacing the routine with a new behavior, it can be easier to change the habit.
I am excited to put these concepts into practice! If you have time you should give this book a try – it has definitely helped me to think more critically about my own habits. I always fell into the same trap every year: having waaay to big goals and making too drastic changes that, of course, did never last. Small incremental changes might be the way to go!
What are your new year's resolutions? Are there any habits you're looking to build or break in 2023?
