Aligning with Atomic Habits

I’m a big fan of James Clear’s book “Atomic Habits.” It’s a book I go back to repeatedly for guidance — for myself and when assisting others. He gives great tips regarding some basic understanding around behavior change when creating new habits, as well as when removing, reducing, and replacing old habits.

While it’s necessary to be specific with your strategies when making improvements, there can be flexibility in the approach. It’s helpful to give yourself some leeway. Many strategies of mindset coaching can feel restrictive. The mindset becomes all-or-nothing. Then when a day comes along when you’re busy with other things, you’re conflicted. You feel you can’t give your desired amount to time to your habits and goals, prompting you to drop them altogether.

The key is to move away from having an all-or-nothing mentality. Instances when you don’t have time or a lot of energy are going to arise. When they do, be determined to do something, anything — just to keep the habit going. It’s okay to reduce the scope of your healthy habit in that moment, rather than opting to do nothing.

Establish the Habit First

It’s a psychological “win” to do anything at all with regard to your desired habits. You want to do any amount to allow you to say that you showed up that day and to affirm you’re sticking to the schedule. Give…