Habits Made Simple: How to Build Habits in 6 Easy Steps

Introduction: From Purpose to Practice

In my last article, I explored how to set goals that truly matter – not the kind you copy from a checklist, but the kind rooted in your purpose, values, and vision for the life you actually want. If you missed it, you can read more about it here.

But setting meaningful goals is only the first step.

The real challenge? Living those goals – day in and day out.

That’s where habits come in. Specifically, the kind of habits that are so small, so consistent, and so intentionally designed that they quietly transform your life over time.

No one explains this better than James Clear, author of Atomic Habits. His approach to habit formation has helped millions of people realise that you don’t need massive action to make a change – you just need the right system, a clear identity, and the discipline to improve by 1% every day.

In this article, I’ll break down how to build habits using Clear’s principles, along with practical tools like habit stacking, daily routines, and trackers so you can start aligning your life with your purpose, one small step at a time.

What Is a Habit, Really?

Before diving into systems and routines, let’s zoom out and ask a basic but important question: what is a habit, really?

A habit is something you do so often, your brain eventually puts it on autopilot. You no longer have to decide to do it – you just do it. It’s the way you brush your teeth without thinking, how you check your phone when you’re bored, or the fact that you always grab a coffee before sitting down to work.

Habits form through a neurological loop that works like this:

Cue – something triggers your brain (e.g. walking into the kitchen)
Routine – you follow a specific behaviour (e.g. making coffee)
Reward – you get some kind of payoff (e.g. energy, comfort, satisfaction)

Repeat that enough times and the habit becomes automatic. Your brain loves habits because they save energy. You’re not weighing every decision – you’re running a script. That’s great when the script supports your goals, and not so great when it doesn’t.

The tricky part? Your brain doesn’t care whether the habit is helpful or harmful, it just repeats what’s familiar and rewarding.

That’s why understanding how to build habits intentionally is so important. You’re not just learning how to be more productive – you’re teaching your brain new default settings that serve the person you’re becoming.

So whether you want to start journaling, move your body more, or reduce stress, the key is repetition, not perfection. Build it small, repeat it often, and let your brain take it from there.

Why Big Changes Start Small – and Why That’s the Whole Point

Most people approach change with an “all or nothing” mindset – new year, new life, massive overhaul. But that approach usually leads to burnout or failure because it’s unsustainable.

If you’re serious about learning how to build habits that last, here’s the truth: start smaller than you think.

James Clear calls this the 1% principle – the idea that improving just 1% each day leads to exponential growth. You don’t need to be perfect. You don’t need to change everything at once. You just need to take one small step consistently.

For example:

One minute of journaling can become a powerful self-awareness habit
Two push-ups can evolve into a full fitness routine
A single deep breath before reacting can reshape your emotional habits

It’s not the size of the habit – it’s the frequency. The identity you’re building through repetition is what matters most.

Clear also recommends doing a habit audit, or what he calls a Habit Scorecard. Write down all your current habits and rate them: positive, neutral, or negative. This simple act of tracking is one of the most overlooked steps in learning how to build habits – because awareness is the first stage of change.

Try this: Tomorrow, write down everything you do from the moment you wake up. Then ask yourself: Is this behaviour helping me become the person I want to be?

That awareness alone can guide your next habit decisions.

Build Identity-Based Habits First

One of the most powerful ideas in James Clear’s Atomic Habits is this: real change starts with identity, not outcomes.

Most people set goals like:

I want to lose 10 kg
I want to write a book
I want to meditate every day

But Clear urges us to go deeper. Instead of asking “What do I want to achieve?”, ask:
“Who do I want to become?”

The truth is: “You don’t rise to the level of your goals; you fall to the level of your habits.” (James Clear). And the most lasting habits are built when they reflect who you believe yourself to be.

If you want to build lasting habits, focus on identity.

Don’t just try to lose weight – become someone who prioritises health.
Don’t just try to read more – become someone who values learning.
Don’t just try to save money – become a person who is mindful of finances.

This subtle shift changes everything.

Each time you follow through on a small action – even something as tiny as choosing a salad or opening your journal – you cast a vote for that identity. And over time, those votes build into belief.

Journaling Prompts: Step Into Your New Identity

Use these prompts to clarify the kind of person you’re becoming – and how your habits can help you embody that version of yourself:

Who do I want to become over the next 6 months
What traits does that version of me live by?
What does a healthy/confident/focused version of me do daily?
What would that person not tolerate anymore?
What habit could I build this week to reinforce that identity?
What action would that version of me take when faced with a challenge or doubt?
What belief about myself needs to change to live this new identity?

The more clearly you define this identity, the easier it becomes to make aligned decisions, because you’re no longer asking “should I do this?” You’re asking, “Is this what the person I’m becoming would do?”

That’s how habits become natural – and identity becomes your new normal.

Journaling Prompts to Connect Your Goals with Identity-Based Habits

If you have already set your purpose-driven goals, use these prompts to reflect on them, the identity they require, and how you can build daily habits that bring that identity to life.

Understand Your Future Identity

Who is the version of me that has already achieved this goal?
What habits or behaviours are second nature to that version of me?
What does their day look like, from morning to evening?
What boundaries, routines, or mindsets do they protect?
What do they prioritise and what do they no longer tolerate?

Bridge the Gap Between Now and Then

In what ways am I already becoming that person?
Where am I still holding on to habits or beliefs that don’t serve this version of me?
What feels hard or unnatural about this goal – and what identity shift would make it easier?
What would that version of me do when they feel tired, distracted, or unmotivated?
What are three small actions I could repeat daily to begin embodying this identity?

Build Supportive Habits

What current habit can I build upon to create a new, supportive one?
What triggers or routines in my day could I use to stack a new habit?
What’s one habit I can make so small it feels impossible to fail?
Which habits currently get in the way of my goals, and what can I replace them with?
How will I track this new habit, and how will I know it’s working?

Stay Grounded in the Why

Why does this goal truly matter to me, beyond appearances or pressure?
What value or feeling do I hope to gain by achieving this goal?
How will it feel when I become the person who naturally lives this way?
Who else benefits when I become this version of myself?
How can I remind myself of this identity and goal daily (e.g. affirmation, visual, journaling)?

Master the Art of Habit Stacking

One of the most practical strategies James Clear shares is habit stacking, linking a new habit to an existing one.

Instead of creating a brand-new routine from scratch, you anchor the new habit to something that’s already part of your day.

For example:

After I pour my morning coffee, I’ll write in my gratitude journal
After I brush my teeth, I’ll read one page of a book
After I close my laptop, I’ll stretch for 2 minutes

This works because it leverages your brain’s existing pathways. You’re not relying on motivation, you’re building on momentum.

How to create your own habit stack:

Use your habit scorecard from before, or make a list of habits you already do consistently (e.g. wake up, eat lunch, feed the dog).
Identify one small, purpose-aligned habit you want to add.
Use this formula: After [current habit], I will [new habit].
Keep the new habit extremely simple (start with under 2 minutes if needed).

This is one of the most effective ways to build momentum. It works because it’s anchored in something that’s already part of your identity. And over time, those tiny wins add up to big changes.

If you’ve been wondering how to build habits that actually last, this is your entry point. Not by pushing harder, but by designing smarter.

Build Routines That Reflect Your Purpose

Once you’ve clarified your purpose and started to stack small, supportive habits, it’s time to take it one step further: by embedding those habits into your morning and evening routines.

If you’re serious about learning how to build habits that align with your goals and values, then daily routines are your secret weapon. Routines turn scattered intentions into consistent action. They give your day structure, your goals space, and your habits a natural rhythm.

Morning Routines: Start With Intention

Your morning sets the tone for the rest of your day. Instead of jumping straight into your inbox or phone, what if you used those first 15–30 minutes to invest in yourself?

Here are a few small, stackable habits to build into your mornings:

After waking up, I’ll drink a glass of water.
After brushing my teeth, I’ll write one sentence in my journal.
After making coffee, I’ll review my to-do list or vision board.

These might seem simple, but remember, when you’re learning how to build habits, small is powerful. The goal isn’t to create the “perfect” routine, but one that supports the person you’re becoming.

Popular Morning Frameworks to Try

If you’re looking for more structured inspiration, here are two powerful morning rituals from top authors. These formats are flexible – adapt them to suit your schedule and lifestyle.

20/20/20 Formula (from The 5 AM Club)

Robin Sharma emphasises the power of starting your day early to maximise productivity and personal growth. He introduces the 20/20/20 formula, which divides the first hour of your day into three 20-minute segments:

Move: Engage in physical activity to jumpstart your metabolism and energy levels.
Reflect: Spend time journaling, meditating, or practising gratitude to centre your mind.
Grow: Dedicate time to learning, such as reading or listening to educational content.

This structured approach aims to enhance focus, reduce stress, and foster continuous self-improvement.

S.A.V.E.R.S (from The Miracle Morning)

Hal Elrod introduces the S.A.V.E.R.S. routine, a six-step process to transform your mornings:

Silence: Begin with meditation or deep breathing exercises.
Affirmations: Recite positive statements to reinforce your goals and beliefs.
Visualisation: Imagine achieving your goals to enhance motivation.
Exercise: Incorporate physical activity to boost energy.
Reading: Consume personal development material to gain new insights.
Scribing: Journal your thoughts, experiences, and progress.

This routine is designed to instil discipline, clarity, and purpose from the moment you wake up.

Morning Habits to Choose From

Use the table below to create your own habit stack:

Habit	Purpose/Benefit
Make your bed	Creates a sense of order and early accomplishment
Avoid your phone for the first 30–60 minutes	Prevents distraction and stress overload
Drink a glass of water	Rehydrates after sleep and energises your body
Stretch or do light movement	Increases blood flow and physical awareness
Do a short workout	Boosts endorphins and jumpstarts energy
Meditate or practise deep breathing	Centres your mind and improves focus
Recite affirmations	Reinforces self-belief and positivity
Visualise your ideal day or long-term goals	Builds motivation and mental clarity
Journal your thoughts or dreams	Promotes mindfulness and emotional clarity
Read a few pages of a book	Stimulates the brain and inspires new ideas
Review your top 3 priorities	Creates intention and sharpens direction
Listen to a podcast or audiobook	Makes the most of your morning commute
Write down your goals or intentions	Keeps your focus purpose-driven
Do a cold splash or shower	Boosts circulation and sharpens alertness
Stand in sunlight for 5–10 minutes	Regulates your circadian rhythm
Practise gratitude	Shifts your mindset into appreciation mode
Prep a healthy breakfast	Fuels your body intentionally
Review your calendar or appointments	Mentally prepares you for the day ahead
Set a daily affirmation or mantra	Anchors your mood and purpose
Do something creative (e.g. sketch, write)	Activates your right brain and joy

Evening Routines: Wind Down with Intention

If mornings set the tone, evenings help you reset and reflect. A good evening routine doesn’t just improve sleep – it helps you process your day, make peace with what’s unfinished, and prepare your mind and body for rest.

Even a handful of mindful habits in the final hour of your day can create calm, build resilience, and bring closure.

Try these:

After dinner, I’ll write down one thing I did well today.
After turning off the TV, I’ll prepare my clothes or planner for tomorrow.
After getting into bed, I’ll read one page of a book that inspires me.

Even if your mornings are rushed or unpredictable, evenings are often calmer – making them the perfect time to reset, reflect, and reinforce your purpose.

Evening Routine Inspiration from Thought Leaders

The following routines are rooted in science-backed practices for deeper sleep and improved well-being.

Evening Rituals (from The 5 AM Club)

While Robin Sharma is well-known for his morning routine, he also emphasises the importance of preparing your evening for success, especially if you want to wake up with energy and clarity.

Here’s how Sharma suggests winding down:

No screens 90 minutes before bed: Avoid blue light to allow melatonin (your sleep hormone) to rise.
Plan the next day: Reflect on your wins and write down tomorrow’s top priorities.
Evening gratitude or reflection journal: Use this time to acknowledge your progress and reset your mindset.
Read a book that inspires you: Sharma recommends ending the day with wisdom rather than noise.
Early bedtime: Aim to sleep by 10 p.m. so your body gets full recovery before a 5 a.m. start.

The goal isn’t perfection, it’s consistency with intention. Just like in the morning, your evenings can become a powerful space for grounding, reflection, and preparation.

Sleep Rituals (from The Sleep Revolution)

Arianna Huffington emphasises the importance of sleep for overall well-being. She suggests:

Consistent Sleep Schedule: Go to bed and wake up at the same times daily.
Sleep-Inducing Environment: Create a dark, quiet, and cool bedroom setting.
Pre-Sleep Rituals: Engage in activities that signal your body it’s time to sleep, such as reading or taking a warm bath.

Prioritising sleep can enhance cognitive function, mood, and productivity.

Evening Habits to Wind Down Peacefully

Habit	Purpose/Benefit
Digital detox (1 hour before bed)	Reduces mental stimulation and improves sleep
Read fiction or calming material	Eases your brain into rest mode
Gentle yoga or stretching	Releases tension built up during the day
Gratitude journaling	Ends your day on a note of contentment
Reflect on the day’s highs and lows	Builds self-awareness and emotional clarity
Review your goals or planner	Reinforces progress and momentum
Set your top priorities for tomorrow	Creates clarity and reduces anxiety
Prepare your outfit or workspace	Makes mornings smoother and less stressful
Take a warm shower or bath	Signals to your body that it’s time to relax
Sip herbal tea	Aids digestion and soothes the nervous system
Practise breathing exercises	Slows your heart rate and quiets your mind
Write a brain dump to-do list	Clears mental clutter for better sleep
Use essential oils or a diffuser	Enhances relaxation through scent
Dim the lights gradually	Signals your brain to produce melatonin
Listen to soft music or ambient sounds	Creates a peaceful bedtime atmosphere
Say affirmations or positive self-talk	Ends the day with inner kindness
Avoid heavy meals late at night	Supports better digestion and sleep
Reflect on one thing you’re proud of	Builds confidence and gratitude
Practise self-care (skincare, hair care)	Nurtures your body and promotes rest
Go to bed at a consistent time	Supports your natural body clock

Routines don’t need to be perfect – they need to be aligned. When you know how to build habits that reflect your values and identity, you move through your day with more ease, direction, and purpose. Whether you adopt a full routine or choose just one habit from each table, the most important step is to begin.

purpose-driven goals habit tracker how to build habits

Habit Tracking for Real Progress

When you’re learning how to build habits, one of the most effective (and underrated) strategies is tracking them. It’s not about being rigid or obsessive – it’s about creating visibility and accountability.

Tracking your habits gives you instant feedback. It shows you your progress, your consistency, and your gaps. Even more importantly, it motivates you to keep going – because there’s something satisfying about ticking that little box or seeing a chain of completed days.

Why Habit Tracking Works

It reinforces your commitment
It makes invisible progress visible
It turns your streak into a motivator
It builds self-trust – you’re keeping promises to yourself

Whether you prefer digital apps like Habitica or Streaks, or paper-based trackers like the ones in your Poserlane planner, the principle is the same: track the habits you want to grow.

You can start simple:

Daily movement
Morning journaling
Reading one page
Drinking enough water
Preparing for the next day

Choose 2–3 habits that align with your goals and track them for 30 days. Keep it visible – on your desk, your mirror, or inside your planner.

When you’re building new behaviours, tracking makes the difference between wishful thinking and real progress.

Designing Your Personal Habit System

By now, you understand the theory: small habits create big change. But theory alone doesn’t build consistency – systems do. To build a life that reflects your purpose, values, and goals, you need a habit system that fits you, not someone else’s version of productivity.

Here’s how to build one that’s intentional, sustainable, and identity-aligned.

Step 1: Do a Habit Audit (aka Habit Scorecard)

Start by creating awareness of what you’re already doing. Without judgment, write down your typical day from morning to evening. Then label each habit:

(+) Positive – supports your growth or values
(–) Negative – takes you away from your goals
(=) Neutral – not harmful, but not helpful

Ask yourself:

Which of these habits support who I want to become?
Which ones keep me stuck in old patterns?

Awareness is the first step toward intentional change.

Step 2: Identify Key Life Areas

Next, choose 2–3 areas of life where you’d like to see improvement or greater alignment. These might include:

Health & Well-being
Mindset & Mental Clarity
Work & Focus
Relationships & Communication
Finances & Spending
Creativity & Expression
Personal Growth & Learning
Spirituality or Inner Connection

Pick the ones that feel most meaningful right now – not necessarily the ones that seem urgent or trendy.

Step 3: Define the Identity You’re Building

Now ask: Who do I want to become in each of these areas?

Finish the sentence:

In the area of [health/mindset/work], I want to be someone who ______.

Examples:

In health, I want to be someone who nourishes their body daily.
In mindset, I want to be someone who protects their peace.
In work, I want to be someone who focuses deeply and finishes what they start.

When you tie your actions to identity, habits become natural expressions of who you are, not chores.

Step 4: Pick One Small Habit per Area

Now it’s time to bridge the gap between vision and action.

Pick one micro-habit per category. Make it so small it’s nearly impossible to fail. This is how you build momentum.

Examples:

Health → Walk for 2 minutes (or even smaller: put on your running shoes)
Mindset → Write down one thing I’m grateful for
Work → Plan tomorrow’s top 3 tasks before shutting my laptop

Start ridiculously small, then improve by 1% each day.

This principle from Atomic Habits is crucial. Over time, those tiny increments add up to massive transformation – but without burnout.

Step 5: Create a Simple Habit Stack

Now integrate these small habits into your existing routine using the habit stacking formula:

After [current habit], I will [new habit].

For example:

After brushing my teeth, I will stretch for 2 minutes
After making coffee, I will read one page
After checking my calendar, I will review my goals

Link each new behaviour to something you already do consistently. The less mental effort required, the more likely the habit will stick.

Step 6: Track and Reflect

Track your habits daily using a planner, app, or printable habit tracker. Not to chase perfection, but to build self-awareness.

Each tick on your tracker is a small win. It’s evidence that you’re becoming the kind of person who follows through.

Then review weekly:

Which habits are starting to feel natural?
Which need adjusting?
What’s one small upgrade I could make this week?

Step 7: Trust the Process

Building a personal habit system isn’t about overnight results. It’s about stacking small, purposeful actions that reflect the person you’re growing into.

And with every repetition – every ticked box, every 1% improvement – you’re reinforcing that identity.

So choose your habits. Start small. Anchor them into your day. And most importantly, keep going – even when it feels boring, messy, or slow.

Because that’s exactly how real, lasting change is built.

Conclusion: Build the Life You’ve Imagined – One Habit at a Time

If you’ve already done the deep work of clarifying your goals and connecting with your purpose, learning how to build habits is your next step – and it might just be the most powerful one.

Start small. Stack your habits wisely. Build routines that reflect your values. Track your progress. Adjust with grace.

Your life doesn’t need an overhaul – it needs consistency in the right direction.

So choose your next habit. Make it small. Make it purposeful. And begin today.

FAQs

What exactly is a habit?

A habit is a behaviour you do automatically – often without thinking – because your brain has learned it through repetition. Habits help you save energy and make decisions faster. Once a behaviour becomes habitual, it feels easier and more natural.

How long does it take to build a habit?

It depends on the complexity of the habit and your consistency. Studies suggest it takes anywhere from 18 to 254 days, with 66 days being the average to form a strong, automatic habit. The more emotionally rewarding and small the habit is, the faster it tends to stick.

Can I change multiple habits at once?

You can, but it’s not always effective. Start with 1–2 habits at a time, master them, and then build on that momentum. Stacking too many at once often leads to burnout or inconsistency.

How do I break a bad habit?

This is a big topic (and deserves its own article), but a quick summary: replace the bad habit with a new one that satisfies the same need, change your environment to reduce triggers, and track your patterns.

What if I miss a day? Does that ruin my progress?

Not at all. The key is to get back on track the next day (not “next Monday, next Month, on the first”, the next day). Progress is about consistency, not perfection. Missing once is a stumble. Quitting is a pattern.