Miss Susan Flynn

Today I’m sharing: two quotes, two lessons from the bestseller Atomic Habits by James Clear, and one question.

Quotes

on risk

“From an early age, we are conditioned by our families, our schools, and virtually every other shaping force in our society to avoid risk. To take risks is inadvisable; to play it safe is the counsel we are accustomed both to receiving and to passing on. In the conventional wisdom, risk is asymmetrical: it has only one side, the bad side. In my experience, this conventional view on risk is shortsighted and often simply mistaken. My first observation is that successful people understand, properly conceived risk, is often highly productive rather than something to avoid. They appreciate that risk is an advantage to be used rather than a pitfall to be skirted. Playing it safe is dangerous. Far more often than you would realize, the real risk in life turns out to be the refusal to take a risk.” – Charles Sanford

on habits

Time magnifies the margin between success and failure. It will multiple whatever you feed it. Good habits make time your ally. Bad habits make time your enemy.

James Clear

Lessons from Atomic Habits

Three Layers of Behaviour Change

When we want to create a habit, or change a behaviour we generally focus on the outcome such as: I will go to the gym three times a week to loose weight (the outcome). If you want change that lasts, you need to focus on the person you want to become. If you want to get fit, adopt the belief that health is your number one value or that you are an athlete. Everlasting change happens when the habit becomes part of your identity.

The Two Minute Rule

To be successful in creating a new habit, break it down to a task that takes no more than two minutes. For example, if you want to become a runner, break it down to putting your shoes and workout clothes on. Generally once this is completed, you’ll want to go for a run. Don’t make the habit difficult, the mind does not respond well to friction. Break it down to be as simple as possible

A question to ponder…

When you start asking yourself better questions, your world expands. Here’s one to think on:

“Think of your strengths. What could you do to make yourself even stronger in these areas?”

Thanks for stopping by! I share my Friday Five every week. If you found this post valuable, please share, like, comment, and subscribe to my blog. For daily inspiration and guidance on living your best life, follow me on Instagram @miss_susanflynn.

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