How Your Habits Shape Your Identity (and Vice Versa)
4 concepts to master
Habit and Identity / Habits Shape Identity / Feedback Loops Between Habits and Identity
ConceptHabits and identity influence each other in a continuous feedback loop, where habits shape your identity, and your identity shapes your habits. Each action serves as a 'vote' for the type of person you wish to become.
How It Works
Behaviors reinforce beliefs and beliefs drive behaviors, creating a feedback loop. Repeated behaviors provide evidence that reinforces your beliefs about yourself, gradually shaping your self-image and sense of identity. This loop can be either positive (reinforcing desired behaviors) or negative (reinforcing undesired behaviors).
Three Layers of Behavior Change
ConceptThere are three interconnected levels at which change can occur: outcomes (what you get), processes (what you do), and identity (what you believe).
How It Works
Change can be initiated at any of the three layers, but focusing on identity change (changing your beliefs) is more effective for building lasting habits because it aligns your actions with your self-image.
Outcome-Based Habits vs. Identity-Based Habits
ConceptOutcome-based habits focus on achieving specific results, while identity-based habits focus on becoming a particular type of person.
How It Works
Outcome-based habits are driven by a desire for external achievements, while identity-based habits are driven by a desire to reinforce a desired self-image; identity-based habits are more sustainable because they create intrinsic motivation.
Two-Step Process to Changing Your Identity
ConceptA two-step process to intentionally shape your identity by first deciding the type of person you want to be and then proving it to yourself with small wins.
How It Works
By defining your desired identity and then taking small, consistent actions that align with that identity, you accumulate evidence that supports and reinforces your new self-image.