How to Make Good Habits Inevitable and Bad Habits Impossible
This chapter focuses on making good habits inevitable and bad habits impossible by inverting the 3rd Law of Behavior Change: Make it Difficult. It introduces commitment devices, automation through onetime choices and technology, and strategic environmental design to lock in desired behaviors and eliminate unwanted ones.
Key Stories & Examples
Victor Hugo and The Hunchback of Notre Dame
Victor Hugo, facing a deadline for 'The Hunchback of Notre Dame,' locked away all his clothes except for a shawl to avoid distractions and force himself to write.
Creating a commitment device by making bad habits (leaving the house) difficult can force good habits (writing).
John Henry Patterson and the Cash Register
John Henry Patterson bought Ritty's Incorruptible Cashier to prevent employee theft in his store, which led to a significant increase in profits and a new business venture.
Automating ethical behavior by making bad habits (stealing) practically impossible ensures consistent positive outcomes.