logo
pagesback-cover
179
Reddit meter
all mentions

Better Than Before

320 pages, 2015

self-improvement

self-improvement

909 books
psychology

psychology

705 books
Takeaways
Description

In her best-selling book Better Than Before: What I Learned About Making and Breaking Habits. She says that in order to build better habits, we need to understand why some habits are easier to keep than others. Some habits we find easy to adapt and change and others are harder – adding one habit at a time is more effective than trying to change several at once. 

We need to figure out what motivates us to make specific changes - for example, if you feel lethargic each morning, perhaps it's because you're not getting enough sleep, or maybe it's because you need some exercise in your daily routine.

Understanding Your Habits

In Better Than Before, Gretchen Rubin encourages us to explore our own habits. She believes that by understanding our habits, we can make positive changes in our lives. So, take a look at your daily routine and see what habits you can improve.

The Four Tendencies

Rubin introduces the concept of 'The Four Tendencies' in her book. These tendencies are Upholder, Questioner, Obliger, and Rebel. Each of us falls into one of these categories, and knowing which one can help us manage our habits better. So, find out which tendency you belong to and use it to your advantage.

The Power of External Accountability

One of the key takeaways from Better Than Before is the power of external accountability. Rubin suggests that having someone to answer to can help us stick to our habits. So, if you're struggling to maintain a habit, try finding a buddy to keep you accountable.

The Importance of Monitoring

Rubin emphasizes the importance of monitoring in habit formation. By keeping track of our progress, we can see how far we've come and stay motivated to keep going. So, start tracking your habits and see the difference it makes.

The Role of Convenience and Inconvenience

In Better Than Before, Rubin explores the role of convenience and inconvenience in shaping our habits. She suggests that making good habits convenient and bad habits inconvenient can help us stick to our goals. So, check your environment and make it work for you, not against you.

Quotes 5

Gretchen Rubin's book, Better Than Before, is a game-changer. It's packed with practical, manageable advice on how to change our habits and live happier, more productive lives.

Dan HeathDan Heath - Bestselling Author

Rubin's book is a revelation. It's full of insights about how we form habits, and more importantly, how we can transform them.

Susan CainSusan Cain - Non-fiction Writer

Better Than Before is a captivating exploration of the science and psychology of habits. Rubin's book is filled with engaging stories, compelling research, and practical advice.

Daniel H. PinkDaniel H. Pink - Motivational Speaker

Gretchen Rubin's Better Than Before is a remarkable, insightful, and very practical book about the fascinating subject of habits. It's a must-read for anyone looking to take control of their habits and their life.

Charles DuhiggCharles Duhigg - Pulitzer Prize Winner

Better Than Before is a transformative book. Rubin's research and storytelling will inspire you to change your habits and lead a more fulfilling life.

Brene BrownBrene Brown - Research Professor
Dan HeathSusan CainDaniel H. PinkCharles DuhiggBrene Brown

Recommendations

1
Darya Rose

Darya Rose

hospitalityscientistauthor

Better Than Before found in libraries

1
310 books

Best Books for Self Growth

Achieve the greatest potential in everything you do with the Best Books For Personal Growth we can offer.