Baby Steps, Big Leaps: My Midlife Journey with Atomic Habits

Estimated read time 5 min read

Now that we’ve just stepped into the new year with renewed hopes and resolutions, I thought this would be a perfect time to kick off my blog with a book review about habits. But this isn’t your usual book review—I’m sharing my thoughts and lessons from a book that has positively changed my life.

Let me give you a quick backstory. Atomic Habits by James Clear is one of the most practical books I’ve come across. I first read it back in 2021 during the COVID days and even started writing a review, though I never finished it. Every time I revisit this book, it inspires me to write about it.

Last year, I gave Atomic Habits another try. This time, instead of just reading it, I decided to put the author’s techniques into practice. Life’s unexpected changes can throw us off balance, leaving us unsure of where to begin. Adjusting to an empty nest, stepping into retirement, or finding balance can feel overwhelming. I once thought that at this stage of my life, starting new habits was nearly impossible—but trust me, this book proved me wrong!

Here I am in 2025, revisiting my book review, but with a twist: I’ve applied those techniques in my life (to some extent!). This time, I’m determined to finish it and publish it on my blog before the New Year buzz fades. No procrastination… hopefully!

In Atomic Habits, the author’s philosophy focuses on making small, simple changes. He explains how small, consistent habits can lead to big results over time. He teaches readers to identify the triggers for their habits, the desires behind them, the actions they take, and the rewards they get.

The book revolves around James Clear’s 4 Laws. Here’s what I’ve understood so far.

  1. Make It Obvious (Cue): The first rule focuses on creating clear cues to prompt your desired behavior. For example, place your workout clothes where you’ll see them in the morning, making it easy to grab them and go for a walk. Keep cues for good habits visible and hide triggers for bad ones.
  2. Make It Attractive (Craving): The second rule is concerned with staying motivated by pairing your new habit with something you enjoy. For instance, if you love watching birds, enjoy the view while walking. Or combine something you need to do with something you want, like listening to an audiobook during your walk.
  3. Make It Easy (Response): The third rule deals with keeping habits simple and effortless. Set up your space so good habits are easy to do and bad ones are harder. Start small—if you want to read more, leave your book where you’ll see it, like on the kitchen counter. Instead of aiming for hours of reading, start with just ten minutes. Simple habits are easier to stick with and become part of your routine.
  4. Make It Satisfying (Reward): The fourth rule focuses on rewarding your habits. The author suggests using immediate rewards to reinforce the behavior right after completing it. For example, after walking for 30 minutes to an hour, I treat myself to a refreshing fruit juice. It makes me feel as happy as a kid getting a treat!

Big changes used to feel uncomfortable for me, but Atomic Habits has shown me that change doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here’s how I’ve started applying these simple ideas in my life:

Morning Routine: Instead of diving straight into my to-do list, I spend an hour each morning reading or writing. It’s a simple habit that helps me stay focused and creates a productive start to the day before everything else takes over.

Self-Care: I’ve added a short walk to my evening routine, just before sunset. It’s a peaceful way to unwind, enjoy nature, and clear my mind. I also use this time to recite the new shlokam I’ve learned, making the walk even more special. It helps me stay calm, present, and mindful in the moment.

Gratitude: Every night, I take ten minutes to jot down things I’m grateful for—whether it’s a kind word, a delicious meal, laughs with friends, or just the peace of the day. This simple habit, which I’ve been doing for a few months, helps me end the day on a positive note.

Small actions like drinking more water, taking a short walk, or reading for ten extra minutes might seem minor, but when practiced consistently, they can lead to significant changes.

The book repeats the same ideas in different ways, which can feel a bit like going in circles. Each chapter ends with a summary, adding to the repetition. At times, I found this a little tiresome. But overall, Atomic Habits is a fun and practical guide to making small changes that can lead to big wins later—perfect for those of us in midlife, like me, who can be cranky one moment, confused the next, and ecstatic at times!

Finally, if you’re not a regular reader, Atomic Habits is a great place to start. It’s easy to read, packed with practical tips, and full of insights to help you make meaningful changes in your life.

By the way, Happy New Year! Here’s to 2025—fewer confusing moments, less crankiness, and a lot more laughter. Let’s make this year all about small changes, big strides, and having fun along the way!

P.S. If you’d like to borrow my copy, I’d be happy to lend it to you. A little reminder: I tend to read with a highlighter in hand! One more thing, I get a little panicked if my books are off my shelf for more than a week. No pressure, but please try to return it by then. 🙂

10Comments

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  1. 1
    Deepa minood

    U did a great job as a review writer😛.
    Made that urge in me to read this book. Though its been lying with me for quite a long time. 👏👏👏👏. And btw happy to know about the changes u bought in ur life

  2. 3
    Sakkir Hussain

    I heard about this book Atomic Habits in one of the motivation speeches that I hear during my morning walks.
    Your review is excellent. Keep it up Mineetha.👏👏

  3. 7
    Biju

    Good one Mineetha & it prompts you to peep into those ‘Atomic habits!’
    I really liked the lines ‘who can be cranky one moment, confused the next, and ecstatic at times’! It syncs well with me too, even though how best you try to be stress free, while jumping between the roles, it shamefully repeats!
    Keep writing such 👍

    • 8
      Mineetha Chandralekha

      Thank you so much, Biju! I’m glad those lines resonated with you 🙂 Juggling different roles can definitely be challenging. Thanks again for your lovely words!

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