Habit stacking is a clever trick to make forming new habits feel more natural and effortless. It involves taking a habit you already have, something you do regularly without thinking and adding a new habit right after it. Connecting the new habit to something you’re already accustomed to makes remembering and incorporating it into your daily routine easier. It’s a practical way to help yourself embrace positive changes more smoothly and effectively. Dr. Courtney Conley, a licensed therapist, provides further insight:

“If you already brush your teeth before bed, you could stack a new habit of reading for 30 minutes before bedtime. By attaching the new habit to an existing one, you create a cue or trigger for the new habit, making it more likely to stick.”

By now, you should have an understanding of what habit stacking is. Here are two tips to give it a try:

Start with a small, simple habit

According to The Muse, it’s important to be realistic when stacking a new habit onto an existing one. For example, if you try to stack “doing the laundry and cleaning the house” onto “brushing your teeth every night,” you may set yourself up for failure. Instead, start with a new habit that is simple, such as “doing your facials” or “arranging your outfit for the next day” after brushing your teeth. By starting with something easy, you can build momentum and make it easier to stack other habits in the future.

The Best Way to Start Habit Stacking is to Do It

Taking action without overthinking is important when planning to stack a new habit onto an old one. You need to act quickly and without hesitation. To keep yourself accountable, you can find an accountability partner or reward yourself for reaching milestones. Habit stacking helps you develop and stick to the right habits. Give it a try at some point.

Habit stacking involves linking a new habit to an existing one, making it easier to establish desired routines. Start by recognizing your current habits and choosing a specific, achievable new habit. Identify a trigger habit that naturally precedes or follows the new one. Create a clear plan, start small, set reminders, track your progress, and remain consistent. Be patient, adaptable, and celebrate milestones. This method can significantly enhance your ability to cultivate positive habits effectively and incorporate them into your daily life.