The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business

The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business

I picked up The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg hoping to understand why some habits seem impossible to break while others form so effortlessly. What I found was not just a book about habits but a roadmap to understanding how they shape every part of our lives—from personal routines to business success and even societal change.

Duhigg explains habits through the “habit loop”: a cycle of cue, routine, and reward. What I loved most was how he broke down complex science into relatable examples. For instance, learning how companies like Starbucks train employees to respond to stress or why Febreze initially flopped taught me that habits aren’t just about willpower—they’re about systems.

One section that hit home for me was the story of Lisa, a woman who completely transformed her life by changing one keystone habit. It made me reflect on my own routines and how I often focus on surface-level changes without addressing the deeper patterns driving my behavior. Inspired, I started experimenting with identifying my own cues and rewards, and while it’s not easy, the insights from this book have already made a difference in how I approach my mornings and workdays.

What I also appreciated was the balance between storytelling and actionable advice. Duhigg doesn’t just leave you with the “why”; he gives you the “how.” The appendix even offers a step-by-step guide to changing your own habits, which I found immensely helpful.

Overall, The Power of Habit isn’t just a book you read—it’s one you apply. If you’re looking to better understand yourself or make lasting changes in your personal or professional life, this is a must-read. It’s not an exaggeration to say it’s shifted the way I see the world—and myself. Click here to view on Amazon