Start A New Habit Without Buying a Thing
The power of starting small with what you already have
Think you need new gear to start that habit? Think again. Buying stuff feels like progress, but it's not. It's a false start that sets you up to quit before you even begin. If you’re anything like me, there are already boxes in your closet filled with good intentions and regret.
Owning stuff doesn't build habits. Action does.
“But Andrea, I can’t start without that gym membership, that new notebook, that how-to book, those shoes, that subscription, that class, that laptop.”
Accessorizing your new habit might feel like planning, but it’s a form of procrastination, especially if spending allows you to indulge in immediate gratification. That false sense of accomplishment not only prevents you from actually starting, it drains your motivation. Avoid that trap by starting now with what you already have.
To start your new lil' habit right now, identify the core action: what's the 60-second version of your new habit? Go ridiculously, laughably small–you want to make the action so easy, you can't say no (even though you’ll still want to say no 😁, see: Resistance). You will do this ridiculously, laughably small action every day for 21 days.
Trust me when I say, you will get to the big stuff by nailing the fundamentals, and the fundamentaliest fundamental of all is showing up consistently.
If you want to start a podcast, for example, don’t go buy a mic and a how-to course. Instead what’s a 60-second daily habit that you can start today that’s gonna level up your podcast dream a month from now? Maybe it’s using your phone to record a daily video on your subject matter. 21 days of showing up to that action every day will propel you towards your next best investment. Game. Changer.
Need more examples? If your new habit involves…
Exercise: Perform 60-seconds of focused movement daily.
Writing: Open a notebook and write anything for one minute at the same time every day.
Improving finances: Review daily spending.
Learning a new skill: Create a resource list (like books, experts, or articles) in your notes app. Add one item daily.
When starting a habit, your goal is not intensity, your goal is consistency. Keep it simple and track that ridiculously small daily action (your lil’ habit) with a hash on a post-it note until you have 21 days.
“Whatever you repeat, you reinforce.” - James Clear, author of Atomic Habits
When you think about your new habit, consider the four-part habit loop: the cue (your trigger to start), the craving (your motivation), the response (the habit itself), and the reward (the positive outcome).
Instead of creating artificial rewards like buying yourself treats, tune into the intrinsic benefits of your habit. After completing your lil’ habit, pause and feel the natural high or sense of accomplishment it brings. Put words to how the habit improves your life–say it aloud or write it down. Take a few seconds to truly appreciate the positive impact of your action and the person you are becoming. This reinforces the habit loop far more effectively than any external reward.
Only consider buying stuff when you've been consistent for at least a month, you've identified a specific need through your daily engagement, and the purchase will genuinely enhance your established habit. Remember, your most valuable investment is priceless and available to you on demand: your commitment.
Start small, use what you have, and just do the damn thing.
What's the smallest step you can take right now with what you already have?
Do you think this post could help someone else get started on their new habit?
MORE RESOURCES
The Secret to Lil' Habit Success: Making Your New Habit Frictionless
Discover the Magic of the Beginner's Mind for Personal Growth
Disclaimer: My Substack posts are my personal reflections and should not be taken as clinical guidance or treatment. Consult qualified experts regarding your specific health needs.