James Clear’s book Atomic Habits centers on the idea that lasting change happens through tiny improvements in our habits over time rather than major revamps in an effort to achieve a goal.

Without devoting time to changing underlying habits, failure is inevitable.

The Layers to Changing Your Habits

Clear identifies three layers involved in making behavioral changes.

1. Outer layer of Outcomes (goal layer)
2. Middle layer of Processes (habits layer)
3. Inner layer of Identity (beliefs layer)

It’s important to work from the inner layer out. Rather than making the goal the sole focus, we should identify the type of person we want to be and the habits necessary for getting us closer to that goal.

As we demonstrate habits consistent with our desired identity, we begin to prove to ourselves that we can be the person we want to be. Clear also suggests we must envision ourselves as who we aspire to be. He shares this example to convey that point: If someone who wants to quit smoking is offered a cigarette, rather than replying with, “No thank you, I’m trying to quit,” they should respond with “No thank you, I’m not a smoker,” to reframe their self-perception.

Key Takeaways:

• Whenever you act in a way that aligns with your desired identity, you are becoming that identity.
• Incrementally adopting better habits will allow goal accomplishment to happen naturally.

Stay tuned for the next article in this series: Make It Obvious.