Leo has an incredible website called Zen Habits, and he’s currently running a Kickstarter campaign for his book, also titled Zen Habits, which is generating a lot of excitement. The campaign is nearing its end, so if you’re curious, be sure to check it out soon. Naturally, I was eager to ask Leo some questions about habits, as he shares my passion for the topic.
Samantha: What’s the most crucial insight you’ve gained about habits?
Leo: The key takeaway for me has been adopting a flexible mindset. When a habit strays off course, I see it as part of the journey, allowing me to learn and adjust. In the past, I had a rigid approach—if my plan didn’t succeed, I felt like I had failed. This mindset easily led me to get derailed by even minor setbacks.
What’s a straightforward habit that consistently boosts your happiness?
Exercise. I once despised it, but now, after a good workout or run, I feel stronger, empowered, invigorated, and joyful.
What’s something about building healthy habits that you wish you had known at 18?
When I was younger, I recognized the importance of healthy habits but often postponed them, thinking I had endless time ahead. I believed I could always choose healthier eating, exercising, or organizing my finances later. Looking back, I realize I squandered a lot of time on distractions and unhealthy food. If I had embraced the habits I now cherish sooner, I would be in a better place today. Although I don’t regret my past, I have certainly gained wisdom.
Are there any habits that consistently hinder your happiness?
I’ve discovered that I can find happiness in any moment as long as I’m present. Therefore, the only habit that obstructs my happiness is forgetting to stay present—which I do all too often!
What habits are most vital to you in various aspects of life?
I prioritize my creative work in the mornings, emphasize single-task focus, practice mindfulness, engage in regular exercise, eat healthy vegan meals, and cultivate gratitude and compassion. Not necessarily in that order!
Have you ever successfully adopted a challenging healthy habit or broken an unhealthy one? How did you achieve it?
Absolutely, I’ve transformed numerous habits. I began with quitting smoking, followed by taking up running (eventually completing several marathons and an ultramarathon), improving my diet, simplifying my life, waking up earlier, eliminating debt, meditating, learning to concentrate, and trusting myself more. I found that concentrating on one habit at a time works best, and starting small is crucial. I would commit to others for accountability, focus on the enjoyment of the habit, anticipate disruptions, adapt as necessary, and progress gradually while leaning on support from others.
How would you classify yourself—an Upholder, Questioner, Rebel, or Obliger?
I definitely identify as an Obliger! I thrive when others expect me to fulfill commitments, but I tend to let myself off the hook if it’s just a promise to myself.
What challenges do you face in maintaining your healthy habits?
Many factors can disrupt my healthy habits, but I’ve learned to handle them gracefully. Travel often impacts my exercise and eating routines, yet I mitigate this by choosing vegan options and not overindulging. Social events can also throw me off, but I view these as minor bumps in the road rather than major setbacks. In the grand scheme of things, unexpected interruptions are part of the journey—it doesn’t indicate a lack of discipline. I strive to breathe, smile, and enjoy the process.
To explore more insightful content from Samantha Collins, visit her site. This article was originally published on December 16, 2014.
In conclusion, developing a flexible mindset is essential for personal growth and resilience. By embracing setbacks as learning opportunities and focusing on small, manageable habits, individuals can enhance their well-being and happiness. For those considering family planning, check out this excellent resource on thinking about fertility treatment or learn more about home insemination kits for your journey. Additionally, for insights related to childbirth experiences, you can read what emergency C-sections taught me.