Every habit is a vote

Every small action is a vote for the person you're becoming. That's the core idea of James Clear's «Atomic Habits», and it isn't about willpower but about identity.

Clear distinguishes three layers of change: outcomes (losing five kilos), processes (going to the gym), and identity (being someone who trains). Almost everyone starts with the first layer. Change that lasts starts with the last one: it isn't about running a marathon, it's about becoming a runner. Going for a run doesn't cost the runner anything; not going would.

No single action transforms you, just as one vote doesn't decide an election. But votes add up. Don't ask yourself what you want to achieve. Ask yourself who you want to be, and start voting.