Re:Ask HN: I keep forgetting the new habits I'm trying to form
by JasonCannon on Monday October 25, 2021 @12:38PM
(#28989888)
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.
Re:Ask HN: I keep forgetting the new habits I'm trying to form
by niklasmtj on Tuesday October 26, 2021 @09:40AM
(#29000257)
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
Re:Ask HN: I keep forgetting the new habits I'm trying to form
by freetinker on Monday October 25, 2021 @01:37PM
(#28990723)
Beautifully and succinctly captures the book's central message. Thanks!
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.