Atomic Habits does a very good job of laying out the framework of changing, improving, and getting rid of habits. James Clear walks you through the process of how habits form using realistic examples and psychological and sociological backup. Maybe even a bit of chemistry thrown in when he mentions how the chemicals in the brain respond to stimulus. But the book isn’t a bunch of high-level information that you can’t use. It’s laid out in a way that you can follow step-by-step to help create better habits in your life.

James Clear pulls on his own personal experiences and the work of several habit specialists (is that what they are called?). He brings their work together and pairs them with real-life exercises and homework to help you along the way. I did listen to the audiobook, and handouts are available through links he provides verbally throughout.

While I was able to take away a few great ideas on how to build good habits (habit-stacking is probably my favorite), there were a few times things got a little repetitive. I understand similar concepts are being presented in different ways with different approaches, but I wanted to hit fast-forward every now and then. There were also a few extreme examples - which were acknowledged as such - but I didn’t see a following more real-life example to go along with it.

Atomic Habits was a good read, and I did learn a lot. There are a few tactics and practices that I plan on trying, and there are a few that I won’t. If you’re looking for some good ideas, I’d give this book a try.