Make it so easy you can't say no.

When most people struggle to build new habits, they say something like, “I just need more motivation.” Or, “I wish I had as much willpower as you do.” This is the wrong approach. Solve this problem by picking a new habit that is easy enough that you don't need motivation to do it. Rather than starting with 50 pushups per day, start with 5 pushups per day.

1. Start with an incredibly small habit.

Learning to be patient is perhaps the most critical skill of all. You can make incredible progress if you are consistent and patient. Do things you can sustain.

5. Be patient. Stick to a pace you can sustain.

Top performers make mistakes, commit errors, and get off track just like everyone else. The difference is that they get back on track as quickly as possible.

4. When you slip, get back on track quickly.  

If you continue adding one percent each day, then you'll find yourself increasing very quickly within two or three months. It is important to keep each habit reasonable, so that you can maintain momentum and make the behavior as easy as possible to accomplish. Building up to 20 minutes of meditation? Split it into two segments of 10 minutes at first.

3. As you build up, break habits into chunks.   

One percent improvements add up surprisingly fast. So do one percent declines. Rather than trying to do something amazing from the beginning, start small and gradually improve.

2. Increase your habit in very small ways.  

Understanding how to build new habits is essential for making progress. Read this guide right now to learn 5 easy, powerful strategies for changing habits.

4. When you slip, get back on track quickly.

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7. Forgive yourself.