Stephen Guise

Mini Habits

1. IDEA 1

   It started with one push-up

   Guise describes wanting to exercise but feeling unable to start a full workout. He challenged himself to do just one push-up. Once down on the floor, he usually did more, and that tiny commitment became a lasting fitness habit.

2. IDEA 2

   Make habits stupidly small

   A mini habit is a positive behaviour so small it seems silly, like writing fifty words a day. Guise argues that the tiny size removes resistance, so you can succeed every single day regardless of mood or energy.

3. IDEA 3

   Willpower beats motivation for starting

   Guise argues motivation is unreliable because feelings change, while willpower can be used even when you do not feel like it. Mini habits need so little willpower that you will almost always have enough.

All 8 ideas from Mini Habits →