Habits Shape Your Identity (&Vice Versa) Flashcards
What determines where you’ll end up in life?
The curve of tiny gains or tiny losses, as daily choices compound over time.
What kinds of daily choices can define your future self?
Spending less than you earn, exercising weekly, and learning something new daily.
How does time magnify habits?
Good habits make time your ally, while bad habits make time your enemy.
Why are habits considered a double-edged sword?
Because bad habits can harm you as easily as good habits can build you up.
How does productivity compound?
Automating tasks or mastering skills frees your brain for new challenges.
What effect does knowledge compounding have?
Each idea learned builds on previous ones, expanding your way of thinking.
How do relationships compound over time?
Helping others encourages them to reciprocate, building a strong network.
What are examples of negative compounding?
Stress, negative thoughts, and outrage multiply and lead to significant harm.
What is the Plateau of Latent Potential?
The phase where effort seems ineffective, but progress is building invisibly.
Why do people often quit before achieving success?
They don’t persist long enough to cross the Plateau of Latent Potential.
What analogy illustrates the Plateau of Latent Potential?
An ice cube melting at 32 degrees; progress seems invisible until a critical point.
What is the difference between goals and systems?
Goals focus on results; systems focus on the processes that achieve those results.
Why can goals be problematic for long-term progress?
Goals can lead to temporary changes and restrict happiness to specific outcomes.
How does a systems-first approach improve satisfaction?
It allows you to enjoy the process instead of waiting for results.
What is the main purpose of building systems?
To continue refining and improving, not just to achieve a single goal.
