Being a single mom can be challenging, especially when it comes to managing time and building positive habits. Fortunately, the book “Atomic Habits” by James Clear offers practical advice on how to create and sustain good habits.
Here are some ways that single moms can apply the principles from this book:
- Start with small habits. One of the key ideas in “Atomic Habits” is that small habits can lead to big changes over time. As a single mom, it can be overwhelming to try to make major changes in your routine or behavior. Instead, focus on starting with small, manageable habits that can be easily integrated into your daily routine. For example, you could start by drinking a glass of water each morning or doing a 5-minute meditation before bed.
- Make habits visible. Clear suggests that making habits visible can help reinforce them in your mind. As a single mom, you could use a habit tracker or chart to keep track of the habits you’re working on. This can help you see your progress and motivate you to keep going. You could also use visual cues, such as placing your gym clothes by the door as a reminder to exercise.
- Stack habits. Another idea from “Atomic Habits” is to stack habits. This means linking a new habit to an existing one. As a single mom, you could try linking a new habit to a routine task you already do. For example, you could do a 5-minute stretching routine while your coffee is brewing in the morning, or listen to a podcast while doing household chores.
- Create an environment that supports your habits. Clear emphasizes the importance of creating an environment that supports your habits. As a single mom, you could make changes to your physical environment to make it easier to build positive habits. For example, you could set up a designated space for working out or meditation, or keep healthy snacks easily accessible in the kitchen.
- Focus on identity. Clear argues that our habits are connected to our identity – how we see ourselves. As a single mom, you can use this idea to your advantage by focusing on creating an identity that aligns with your desired habits. For example, if you want to make exercise a habit, start thinking of yourself as a “fit” person who enjoys working out.
- Celebrate small wins. Finally, it’s important to celebrate small wins along the way. As a single mom, you may have a lot on your plate, so it’s important to acknowledge and celebrate the progress you’re making towards your goals. This can help you stay motivated and build momentum towards creating positive habits.
In conclusion, the principles from “Atomic Habits” can be applied to every single mom.
By starting with small habits, making habits visible, stacking habits, creating an environment that supports your habits, focusing on identity, and celebrating small wins, you can create positive habits that can help you achieve your goals and improve your quality of life.
