Atomic Habits by James Clear

In perfect time for the New Year, where I’m sure we all hope 2021 will deliver positivity, abundance, good health and prosperity, I decided to read James Clear’s international bestseller self-help book Atomic Habits. With the onset of a fresh start, I sought to implement new habits into my life and daily routine. However, despite the time of year or where you currently are in your life; if you are desiring change or improvement in any area and looking for a way to start, then I highly recommend this book. 

Atomic Habits, as the title suggests, is about the power of tiny changes and how the repetition of these changes can eventually produce incredible results. It is intellectual as Clear draws upon several scientific theories to support his points; easy to understand due to the implementation of simple graphs, diagrams and tables; realistic and practical, with anecdotes of Olympic athletes, businessmen, and comedians, who have proved the success of atomic habits. 

Clear focuses the book on the formation of good habits and the prevention and breakdown of bad habits, through the cycle of cue, craving, response, reward. Within this overarching framework of four parts, Clear develops upon each stage with sub-chapters, providing an in-depth explanation with practical tips. To aid his tips, Clear offers links to resources (including a habit cheat sheet, a habit tracker, and an accountability partner contract) which will allow the reader to be proactive and take steps closer to their goals.

I liked the introduction of the book where Clear tells his own story, his stance with habits, and his reasons for writing Atomic Habits. This personal aspect not only allowed greater insight into the author, but it also provided credibility to the book as he stands as proof to the power of building a habit increment by increment. 

The only criticism that I would make however, is that I found some points were quite repetitive and unnecessarily elongated. In this respect, the book could have been more succinct and shorter overall.

Undoubtedly, I have learned a lot from this book and due to the various takeaways that Atomic Habits offers, there is something in it for everyone. It is certainly a motivating read and will encourage readers to begin their journey of becoming 1% better every day.