I first heard about this book in 2018. The ads were running
high on Instagram about the book called, and a peculiar name really, “Atomic
Habits”. Of course, at that time I didn’t pay much attention. This year, I
bought the book and made up my mind to read it. Took me two months to read it,
I was a bit lazy and also self–help books are ought to be read slowly. So,
here’s what I think about James Clear’s writing.
The book starts off and ends with a
simple point, “Small habits are vital,” No
spoilers here. Often, in life, we think, we need some major revolution to
turn our life around, but that’s not the case, according to the writer. Atomic
habits of ours are very vital because in the long run they compound and become
a part of our personality. So, almost, not noticeable traits of ours are
shaping our lives and we have no knowledge of it. The writer sticks to this
knowledge throughout the book. The writing is simple, understandable, and easy
to read. Figurative explanations and chapter summary at the end of every
chapter give you further depth to the subject matter. Another thing I found appreciable
in this book was, the writer hasn’t bombarded us with examples of people we
don’t know about. Unlike the book from Dale Carnegie “How to Stop Worrying and
Start Living,” this book provides examples only in the places appropriate and
is perfectly brief.
Some formulas are mentioned
throughout the book, to give you an idea of how to apply them in your life. Also,
he has provided us with a cheat sheet, which can be printed from his website.
These cheats are points from his explanation, which act as a summary of the
subject matter.
I can say that I am not disappointed with the book. I wasn’t
expecting a lot, to be honest, but it certainly hasn’t let me down. This book gave
me so many insights to which I will try to hold on to the end of time. Some of
my favorite are:
a)
Success is the product of daily
habits, not once in life transformation
b)
You get what you repeat
c)
Achieving a goal only changes your
life for the moment
d)
The greatest threat to success is not
failure but boredom
e)
Habits + Delicate practice = Mastery
f)
Pick the right habit and progress is
easy. Pick the wrong habit and life is a struggle.
The only thing I found missing from the book was, though it
provides valuable insights, but it doesn’t move you from your seat. It just
doesn’t push you to get up and get it done. I wished this book would hit a lot
closer to home, a feeling that would make me close the book, and stare at the
ceiling in awe, wondering about my life and the truth spitted by the book. I’m
not saying this wasn’t helpful, it helps a great deal, but still, it lacked a
kick in it. Such a kick, that would put me on edge, make me overwhelm, and weigh
the happenings of my life.
All in all, a great read and a great book. Will be applying a
lot of things mentioned in the book. Do give it a read. You won’t be
disappointed!
