The Subtle Power of Changing Your Identity

Source https://zenhabits.net/identity/

By Leo Babauta

One of the most powerful switches I ever made when changing my entire life was switching up my identity.

And while I never did it overnight, I successfully did it in multiple areas:

  • I changed from a smoker to a non-smoker — and once I did, I stopped thinking of smoking as something to do when I was stressed.
  • I went from meat-eater to vegetarian (and later to vegan). It literally took meat off the menu for me, so that I didn’t even consider eating it.
  • I thought of myself as a marathoner. Later, as just someone who exercises regularly to stay fit and healthy. It meant that there was no question I was going to exercise, even if I fell out of it for a bit because of disruptions.
  • I became a meditator (and later Zen student). That means even if I stop meditating for a little bit, I’ll always come back to it.
  • I became a writer. Sure, before this change, I di…

Source https://zenhabits.net/identity/

By Leo Babauta

One of the most powerful switches I ever made when changing my entire life was switching up my identity.

And while I never did it overnight, I successfully did it in multiple areas:

  • I changed from a smoker to a non-smoker — and once I did, I stopped thinking of smoking as something to do when I was stressed.
  • I went from meat-eater to vegetarian (and later to vegan). It literally took meat off the menu for me, so that I didn’t even consider eating it.
  • I thought of myself as a marathoner. Later, as just someone who exercises regularly to stay fit and healthy. It meant that there was no question I was going to exercise, even if I fell out of it for a bit because of disruptions.
  • I became a meditator (and later Zen student). That means even if I stop meditating for a little bit, I’ll always come back to it.
  • I became a writer. Sure, before this change, I di…

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