Have you ever struggled to build a new habit or break a bad one? You're not alone. Nearly 45% of our daily actions are driven by habits, making them crucial to our lives. To build lasting habits and break bad ones, we must understand the three layers of behavior change: outcomes, processes, and identity.
James Clear's book "Atomic Habits" emphasizes that identity, or how we see ourselves, is the most important layer. If our behavior doesn't align with our identity, it won't last. For instance, if you see yourself as "not a morning person," getting up early for the gym will be challenging. Similarly, someone who views themselves as "not a reader" will struggle to maintain a reading habit.
To successfully change habits, we must focus on who we wish to become, not just what we want to achieve. For example, instead of just running, become a runner. Instead of just working out, become someone who loves fitness.
