Atomic Habits for Mums

Today, in 4 minutes or less, you’ll learn:  

1. Atomic Habits principles can help mums start and grow businesses through small, consistent actions.  
2. Key strategies include starting small, creating a success-oriented environment, and implementing the 2-Minute Rule.  
3. Building identity-based habits, making tasks attractive, and tracking progress are essential for sustainable business growth. 

Do you feel your business dreams are stuck in the "someday" zone? Trust me, I've been there - I set big goals, but life (and little ones) have often had other plans.  

But what if I told you that the secret to business success isn't massive overhauls but tiny, consistent habits? Reading James Clear's book Atomic Habits was a game-changer for me as I realised that making small changes and building on them could lead to real progress. I recently reread this book and wanted to share some insightful tips I learned from him to help you build the business you dream about while balancing the demands of motherhood.  

#1 Start Small: The Power of Tiny Changes  

"Success is the product of daily habits—not once-in-a-lifetime transformations." — James Clear.   

Starting a business is a big task, but breaking it down into smaller, manageable actions can make it less daunting. For example, instead of setting a vague goal like "I want to grow my business," focus on a tiny habit like "I will spend 10 minutes a day researching my niche." Small, consistent actions build up over time and lead to significant results.  

Tip: Set aside 10-15 minutes daily for business activities. Whether creating content, reaching out to potential clients, or learning new skills, these small steps accumulate and drive progress.  

#2 Create an Environment for Success  

"You do not rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems." — James Clear.  

Your environment can significantly impact your productivity. Create a dedicated workspace that minimises distractions and helps you focus. Whether it's a specific corner of your home or a virtual workspace, having a dedicated area for business tasks can enhance your efficiency.  

Tip: Designate a spot in your home as your business zone. Make it comfortable and free from interruptions, so you can easily slip into work mode.  

#3 Implement the 2-Minute Rule  

"When you start a new habit, it should take less than two minutes to do." — James Clear.  

The 2-Minute Rule is a game-changer for busy mums. If a task takes two minutes or less, tackle it immediately. This approach helps prevent procrastination and keeps small tasks from piling up. Showing up for yourself becomes more automatic when you get it done.  

Tip: Use this Rule for quick tasks like responding to emails, updating your social media, or scheduling a post. Completing these small tasks right away can keep your to-do list manageable.  

#4 Build Identity-Based Habits  

"Focus not on what you want to achieve, but on who you wish to become."  — James Clear.  

Instead of just setting goals, think about the kind of person you want to be. For instance, if you want to be seen as an expert in your field, start by building habits that align with this identity, such as writing blog posts or engaging with your audience regularly.  

Tip: Reflect on the business owner you aspire to be and adopt habits that align with that vision. For example, if you want to be known for quality content, commit to a routine of regular, thoughtful posts.  

#5 Make Habits Attractive  

"The more attractive an opportunity is, the more likely it is to become habit-forming."  — James Clear.  

If you find your business tasks unappealing, sticking with them is more challenging. Find ways to make your business tasks more enjoyable or rewarding. For instance, pair a task you enjoy with one you find less appealing.  

Tip: Listen to your favourite podcast or enjoy a cup of tea while working on your business tasks. Associating your work with something enjoyable can make it more appealing.  

#6 Be consistent and keep going  

"Anyone can work hard when they feel motivated. It's the ability to keep going when work isn't exciting that makes the difference." — James Clear.  

Are you showing up for yourself when you say you will? Are you pushing through and doing the more challenging and monotonous tasks along with those you enjoy? Consistency and working hard is everything, even when you don't feel like it.   

Tip: Set a realistic schedule based on what you can achieve in your work time (remember, overloading it with everything on your to-do list leads to paralysis and overwhelm). When your work time starts, sit down and start on your first task. I find setting a timer (even just 10 minutes) and doing something on a task often is the motivator I need to get going.  

#7 Track Your Progress and Celebrate Wins  

"You should be far more concerned with your current trajectory than with your current results." — James Clear.  

Are your habits putting you on the path to success? Your outcomes are a lagging measure of your habits. Tracking your progress helps you stay motivated and see how your small habits add up. Celebrate your milestones, no matter how small, to maintain enthusiasm and keep moving forward.  

Tip: Keep a journal or use an app to track your daily business activities and progress. Celebrate achievements like completing a project or gaining new followers to motivate yourself.  

Incorporating these principles from Atomic Habits into your daily routine can transform your business journey and make balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship more manageable. Remember, you don't need hours of uninterrupted time to build your dream business. With the proper habits, you can move mountains - one pebble at a time.  

Embrace small, consistent changes, create an environment that supports your goals, and focus on building habits that align with your business vision.  

Here's to your success!