Build habits by design: cues, environment, and small consistent actions.
Cue
A trigger that starts the behavior (time, place, emotion, preceding action).
Implementation intention
A specific plan: "If X happens, then I will do Y."
Habit stacking
Attach a new habit to an existing one: "After I __, I will __."
Reduce friction
Make good habits easier and bad habits harder by changing the environment.
Identity-based habit
Focus on becoming the type of person who does the habit; actions cast votes for identity.
Tiny habit
Start so small it is hard to fail (build consistency first).
Start line
Define the smallest action that counts (e.g., "open the doc").
Make it obvious
Put the cue in your path (visual reminders, prepared workspace).
Make it attractive
Pair with something enjoyable or meaningful to increase pull.
Make it easy
Reduce steps; prepare in advance; lower the activation energy.
Make it satisfying
Add immediate positive feedback (checkmark, small reward).
Environment design
Shape surroundings so the default behavior is the desired behavior.
Replacement behavior
Swap an unwanted habit with a better one that meets the same need.
Remove triggers
Reduce exposure to cues for bad habits (apps, snacks, notifications).
Commitment device
Create a cost for breaking the plan (money, public promise, lock-in).
Social accountability
Tell someone your plan or join a group to increase follow-through.
Habit tracking
Tracking increases awareness and consistency; keep it simple.
Never miss twice
Missing once is a mistake; missing twice is the start of a new habit.
Focus on systems
Aim for a repeatable process, not a short-term outcome.
Schedule beats mood
Rely on time and routine more than motivation.
Default options
Make the desired choice the easiest default (prep, auto-pay, pre-commit).
Immediate reward
Add a small reward right after the habit to reinforce it.
Delay the bad habit
Add a waiting period to weaken impulses (e.g., 10-minute rule).
Weekly review
Review what worked, what failed, and adjust the environment and plan.
Recovery plan
Define what you do after a slip (reset quickly, reduce scope, restart).