Better Than Before… a quick introduction, OR – why habit-forming starts with humility.

For years, I’ve not read any time-management & personal-growth books – relying mainly on coaches and reading blog posts for personal growth.

I read Gretchen Rubin’s “Better Than Before” last night (and this morning) – and recommend it.

It’s about how to create new habits – and as Rubin very aptly states:

“Habits are the invisible architecture of our daily lives… … If we change our habits, we change our lives…”

In it, I found strategies and tactics that are easy to understand and adopt.

I made notes – and thought to share the first bit (based on my interpretation of the first chapter). I capitalise some words to add emphasis.

Here’s the thing:

We all have limited Willpower. Let’s face it.

And we all will have limited Energy to make Decisions.

So – instead of using Willpower and Decision-Making Energy to do EVERYTHING, use Willpower to make good decisions; and make Decisions to form Habits.

Once we’ve formed habits – we have a system to succeed, set on Autopilot.

So – the creation of Habits, requires humility to recognise that we have very limited Willpower and Energy (Decision-making requires energy).

When Habits enable us to succeed in “Autopilot” mode, we grow. And growth leads to happiness. And happiness increases willpower and energy.

So there – the book is worth at least a speed-read, for those who want to create a powerful life, empowered by habits. Main thing – lots of easily-applicable tactics and strategies.

I’m tempted to make flash cards from my notes. But I won’t do it. Unless others are interested.