Atomic habits: an easy & proven way to build good habits & break bad ones

If you’re like me, you’ve probably made plenty of grand plans to change your life, only to feel overwhelmed or fall off the wagon after a week. That’s exactly why Atomic Habits by James Clear resonated so deeply with me. It’s a book that doesn’t demand perfection or sweeping overhauls but instead celebrates the power of small, consistent actions. And let me tell you, that approach feels so much more realistic.

The main idea behind Atomic Habits is beautifully straightforward: small habits, repeated over time, can lead to big results. It’s not about overnight transformations (because, let’s face it, those rarely stick) but about focusing on the tiny changes that slowly but surely compound into something remarkable.

What I Loved About This Book

1. Practical strategies I could actually use

What I appreciated most about this book is how actionable it is. James Clear doesn’t just inspire you, he gives you a roadmap. For example, he suggests starting ridiculously small. Want to exercise more? Commit to just two minutes at first. Want to write more? Start with one sentence. It’s all about removing the barriers that make habits feel daunting. And let me tell you, these tiny steps genuinely work.

2. The role of environment  

One of the biggest takeaways for me was how much your environment impacts your habits. 

Clear talks about “designing” your environment to make good habits easier and bad ones harder. After reading this, I rearranged a few things at home such as having a glass of water always full on my desk. It’s such a small shift, but it really does help.

3. Identity-based habits

This part was a game-changer. Clear suggests focusing on who you want to be rather than what you want to achieve. So instead of saying, “I want to read more,” you say, “I’m a reader.” It’s such a subtle shift, but it changes the way you approach habits. You’re not just ticking off a task; you’re reinforcing the identity of the person you’re becoming.

4. Stories that stick  

The book is packed with examples and real-life stories that make the concepts easy to understand and apply. Whether it’s a story about athletes, entrepreneurs, or everyday people, there’s something relatable in every chapter. Plus, the science behind habits is explained in a way that’s digestible and not overwhelming.

My takeaway

Reading Atomic Habits was a reminder that you don’t need to be perfect to make progress (a comforting thought, right?). 

Instead, it’s about showing up every day, even in small ways. For me, the idea of stacking tiny habits on top of each other, like doing one 60s dead hang  before leaving the house in the morning or jotting down a thought before I start my workday, felt manageable. And those small wins? They add up.

If I had one small critique, it’s that some of the ideas feel repetitive, especially if you’ve read a lot of self-help books. But honestly, I didn’t mind. Sometimes repetition is what makes the concepts stick.

If you’re looking for a fresh, no-nonsense approach to building better habits, this book is a must-read. It’s practical, easy to follow, and filled with insights that stick with you long after you’ve turned the last page.