The Atomic Habits audiobook, by James Clear, is a great choice if you are looking for self-development books. This bestselling book has made a huge difference in my life. I have listened to many books about personal improvement over the past year.
Despite the amazing reviews, I was initially a bit skeptical. This is not a new topic. How can James Clear offer fresh insights on an already-overdone topic? In many ways, he doesn’t. Most of the information is simple to understand. Clear’s ability to clearly explain these techniques is where he excels. Clear by name, and clear by nature. I had many lightbulb moments and began to make lasting changes in my life after finishing the book.
SYNOPSIS
Make a few small changes to transform your life.
A revolutionary way to make one percent every day better.
Many people believe that if you want to make a difference in your life, it is important to think big. James Clear, a world-renowned habit expert, has found a different way. Clear knows that true change is the result of many small decisions, such as doing two push-ups per day, getting up at five minutes earlier, or making a quick phone call.
He refers to them as atomic habits.
Clear’s groundbreaking book reveals how small changes can lead to life-altering results. Clear reveals a few simple life hacks, including the forgotten art of Habit Stacking and the surprising power of The Two Minute Rule. He also explores cutting-edge neuroscience and psychology to explain why these things matter. He shares inspiring stories about Olympic gold medalists, top CEOs, and distinguished scientists who use the science of small habits to stay motivated, productive, and happy.
Making small changes can have a profound impact on your career, relationships and overall life.
WHAT LONG IS THE ATOMIC HABITS AUDIOBOOK?
The audiobook is short so it can be absorbed quickly. It usually runs for 5 hours and 35 minutes.
It takes 4 hours 27 minutes at 1.25x speed and 3 hours 43 minutes at 1.5x speed.
“Success comes from daily habits, not once-in-a lifetime transformations.”
WHO NARRATES ATOMIC ABITS?
James Clear is the author of Atomic Habits. James Clear shares his personal story in the introduction. This gives the book a personal touch. He is honest and open to sharing his story.
WHAT IS THE STRUCTURE FOR ATOMIC HABITS?
There are 9 main sections to the audiobook:
- Introduction
- The Fundamentials: How small changes can make a big difference
- The 1st law: Make it obvious
- The 2nd law: Make it attractive
- The 3rd Law: Make it Easy
- The Fourth Law: Make it Satisfying
- Advanced Tactics: How can you go from being just good to truly great?
- Conclusion: How to get lasting results
- Appendix
The Atomic Habits contents listing on the Audible app initially seemed a bit random. But, after reviewing this, I realized that the flow is very clear. James Clear illustrates his points with real-world examples and introduces readers to different methods of habit formation. The audiobook has many models that readers can choose from to test. This is something I really love.
This audiobook’s beauty is that each section can be listened to in any order. The laws don’t depend on each other. The Appendix was the least helpful for me as it contained very little useful advice.
“You don’t rise to your goals. You are at the level of your systems.
What are the MAIN TAKEOUTS OF ATOMIC HABITS?
Every person will have a different view of this book. These are my key points from Atomic habits.
- Habits can help you shape your life slowly. This requires dedication and time.
- More important than goals is the development of robust systems.
- Routine is key. To create powerful habits, you will need to overcome boredom.
Along with the main themes, there are many psychological tips. These are described clearly by the author, and connected to real-life cases in a meaningful manner.
IS ATOMIC HABIT REASONABLE TO READ?
Although personal development books can only be seen after several months, I have already made changes to my lifestyle. My daily exercise routine has increased from 30 to 50 minutes. I have also extended my walking routes and added short workouts throughout each day.
Also, there has been a victory on the reading front. I have increased my time listening to audiobooks and gone to bed earlier than before social media or TV.
My writing skills were good at first, but I stopped writing daily after the second month. I lost my routine because of family commitments that changed multiple times over the course of this period. No routine, no habits. This was more of a system problem than a content issue, so I changed my habits.
I feel a lot more confident about my abilities. My habits must be visible. I keep a list, make major hikes and move books to the front. This works for me, even though everyone is different.
For better results, forget about setting goals. Instead, focus on your system.
ATOMIC HABITS – AUDIOBOOK or PHYSICAL BOOK
The Atomic Habits audiobook was my choice because I had credits on Audible to use and I am trying to reduce the amount of physical books I buy (unsuccessfully). Personally, I prefer to listen to nonfiction than to read it. It is easier to absorb the information, especially if the author speaks.
Audio is not complete without diagrams or exercise sheets. You can find printable versions at www.jamesclear.com/atomichabits but be aware that you have to share your email address first. The printed version is better if you are a visual person who prefers to read self-development books in a systematic way. Both are very useful and I am considering buying them both.
