Chapter 2 of 4
How Your Habits Shape Your Identity
The three layers of behavior change and why identity-based habits are the most powerful.
Key Insights
Three layers of change: outcomes (what you get), processes (what you do), identity (what you believe).
The most effective way to change is to focus on WHO you wish to become, not WHAT you want to achieve.
Every action is a vote for the type of person you wish to become.
Notes
Three Layers of Behavior Change
Layer 1 — Outcomes: What you get (lose weight, publish a book). Layer 2 — Processes: What you do (new gym routine, writing schedule). Layer 3 — Identity: What you believe (I am a healthy person, I am a writer). Most people start with outcomes. The key is to start with identity.
Identity-Based Habits
Instead of 'I want to quit smoking' (outcome-based), say 'I am not a smoker' (identity-based). The goal is not to read a book, the goal is to become a reader. The goal is not to run a marathon, the goal is to become a runner.
The Two-Step Process to Change Identity
Step 1: Decide the type of person you want to be. Step 2: Prove it to yourself with small wins. Ask yourself: 'What would a healthy person do?' Then do that. Each action is a vote for your new identity.
The Smoker's Dilemma
Two people are offered a cigarette. Person A says 'No thanks, I'm trying to quit' — they still believe they are a smoker. Person B says 'No thanks, I'm not a smoker' — they have changed their identity. Person B is far more likely to stay smoke-free.
Quotes
“Every action you take is a vote for the type of person you wish to become.”
— Page 38
“The most practical way to change who you are is to change what you do.”
— Page 41