The habit that changed my life
November 04, 2023
Welcome, readers, to 'A Piece of My Learning.' I am a part of a book reading club hosted by Mazavyapar, and for the last few weeks, we've been delving into the pages of the book "Atomic Habits" by James Clear. This is my second time reading this book, and it has sparked my curiosity about what I've truly learned from it. To me, learning means implementation. So, before you read further, I want to ask you - What is your favorite habit, and why?
The habit that has changed my life is a simple one that I do every morning – making my bed. Every morning, as soon as I wake up, I tuck the bedsheet into all the corners, fluff the pillows, and fold the comforter/blanket, placing it neatly on the bed. This small habit has gone a long way for me.
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A Sense of Order
For many of us, the world outside can be chaotic and unpredictable. The demands of work, personal commitments, and the constant barrage of information can create a sense of disarray. Making my bed is like a small oasis of order in the midst of this chaos. It's a way to regain control and create a clean, tidy space within my home.
By neatly arranging the sheets, blankets, and pillows, I transform my bedroom into a tranquil, organized sanctuary. This sense of order extends beyond the physical space; it helps me mentally prepare for the day ahead. It's like a warm embrace of structure that allows me to step out into the world with a clear mind.
A Daily Accomplishment
The act of making my bed provides an instant sense of accomplishment. It's a task that takes only a few minutes but yields tangible results. When I finish making my bed, I see a beautifully arranged space that I've created with my own hands. This simple achievement sets a positive tone for the day, giving me the motivation and confidence to tackle bigger tasks.
This feeling of accomplishment is a small win, but it often has a snowball effect. It encourages me to complete other tasks and goals throughout the day, making me more productive and fulfilled.
Comfort and Serenity
There's a certain comfort in knowing that, no matter how chaotic the world becomes, I can return to my well-made bed at the end of the day. It's an inviting and serene space that welcomes me back, providing a sense of security and warmth.
I often look forward to bedtime simply because I know I'll be crawling into a beautifully made bed. The act of making the bed in the morning is a gift I give to my future self, ensuring that I end my day as peacefully as I began it.
Inspiration for this habit
I was inspired by the principles outlined in "Atomic Habits":
The Two-Minute Rule
James Clear introduces the "Two-Minute Rule" in the book, which suggests that you should start any new habit by making it so easy that it can be completed in just two minutes. Making your bed falls into this category because it's a quick and straightforward task that can be completed within a couple of minutes. By starting with such a tiny, manageable habit, you make it easier to get started and build momentum.
Habit Stacking
Habit Stacking
The book also discusses the concept of habit stacking, where you anchor a new habit to an existing one. For example, you can make a habit of making your bed immediately after getting out of it in the morning. By linking the new habit to a well-established one (waking up), you're more likely to remember and execute it consistently.
Cues and Rewards
Cues and Rewards
In "Atomic Habits," Clear emphasizes the importance of cues and rewards in habit formation. Making your bed can serve as a cue that starts your day with a sense of order and accomplishment. The reward is the satisfaction of having a neat and tidy space, which can set a positive tone for your day.
The Domino Effect
The Domino Effect
James Clear describes habits as "atomic" because they are like the small building blocks that can lead to a chain reaction of positive change. Making your bed might seem insignificant on its own, but it can create a ripple effect. The sense of accomplishment you get from making your bed can spill over into other areas of your life, motivating you to complete more tasks and build more positive habits.
In summary, I want to emphasize that making my bed is more than just a morning chore; it's a daily hobby and a powerful ritual that brings a sense of order, accomplishment, mindfulness, and comfort to my life. It's a small yet significant way of taking care of myself and creating a positive environment to start and end each day. If you haven't tried making your bed a daily habit, I encourage you to give it a go. You might be surprised by the joy and tranquility it can bring to your life.
If you have a habit that has positively impacted you, please feel free to share it with me in the comments below.
In summary, I want to emphasize that making my bed is more than just a morning chore; it's a daily hobby and a powerful ritual that brings a sense of order, accomplishment, mindfulness, and comfort to my life. It's a small yet significant way of taking care of myself and creating a positive environment to start and end each day. If you haven't tried making your bed a daily habit, I encourage you to give it a go. You might be surprised by the joy and tranquility it can bring to your life.
If you have a habit that has positively impacted you, please feel free to share it with me in the comments below.
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4 comments
Take me train me be firm with me and I will put the world at your feet!
ReplyDeleteBe easy with me and I will destroy you! Who am I?
My name is Habit.
Nice one....Keep writing. I am one of your happy readers.
Habit definitely has the potential to put world at our feet. Excellent quote.
DeleteI would like to share a small habit of keeping things in the same place from where I have picked them up. In this way I am assured to find them next when I need
ReplyDeleteThis definitely sounds like a great habit to develop. Thank you for sharing.
Delete