MEPX
Chapter 9 of 10All chapters
  1. 1What a habit is
  2. 2How long it takes
  3. 3Starting a habit
  4. 4Implementation intentions
  5. 5Environment
  6. 6Breaking a habit
  7. 7Lapses
  8. 8Rewards and tracking
  9. 9Identity and goals
  10. 10Honest limits

Chapter 9 of 10

Identity and goals

Framing that lasts.

Systems over targets

A target ends when it is reached or missed; a system continues. Framing the aim as being someone who does this beats aiming at a number.

  • Evidence for the identity framing is suggestive, not conclusive.
  • Small consistent actions supply that evidence to yourself.

Choosing what to build

Pick habits that compound: sleep, movement, reading, saving, deliberate practice. Most people over-invest in the visible and under-invest in the boring.