Review: Atomic Habits By: James Clear

Why I Chose This Book

Over the years, I have heard people sing the praises of several books and made a mental note each time. However, few books have had so many positive recommendations as “Atomic Habits”.

Since I’m in a challenge called “75 Hard” which requires 10 pages read from a non-fiction, self improvement book, this was the perfect opportunity.

Main Takeaway

Large changes in life often require multiple small or “bite sized” changes rather than a single massive change.

Small adjustments add up over time and are far less overwhelming or difficult. Like a plane leaving CA changing its course by 10 degrees. By the time it crosses the country, it will be miles and miles off course.

Clear gives the 4 laws of habit formation and easy to understand explanations that will help you control and shape your own habits in life.

Best Quote

“Perfect is the enemy of good.”

The basketball player who takes 100 good shots is far more likely to land a shot than the person who plans and spends hours thinking while only taking one shot.

Sometimes we think and plan so much on the things we want to change that we end up aiming for perfection rather than just starting. This planning for perfection often leads to paralysis as we fear that we may not be so perfect after all.

Aim for good and start moving. Adjust as you go. Let multiple “goods” evolve into “perfect”.

How It Applies To My Journey

In recovery, heavy workouts sometimes aren’t within our grasp. Even movements you made before hospitalization aren’t possible if you’ve suffered from severe atrophy or surgeries that leave you weakened.

Rather, small steps, finding your current limitations, can gradually build you to your previous abilities and, if continued, even further.

Recovery comes in small, careful steps. Habits, if you will. And this book will help you form the habits that will aid you in regaining your desired lifestyle.

Would I Recommend “Atomic Habits”?

10/10. Absolutely with a resounding “Yes!”.

Whether your goal is recovery, keeping a house clean, raising children, climbing the corporate ladder, getting in shape… you name it.

This book will absolutely help anyone achieve their goals if you read it, meditate on it and put it’s teachings into practice.

In reality, it may not be the instant fix you’re wishing for. But I’d rather start with “good” and build my way up and aim for “perfect” and never get started.

Check out “Atomic Habits” for yourself here!