Everyone lives their life through habits, and whether they realize it or not, it is these subconscious habits that largely dictate our future. Our brains are conditioned to follow the patterns we engrain through repetition which makes it challenging to make a new habit stick.

Habit stacking provides a foolproof approach to integrating habits by relying on our current routines. Keep reading to learn about habit stacking and how to create habits that stick.

What Is Habit Stacking?

Habit stacking is the process of integrating the habits you want to start with the habits you already have with a cue and response model. The habit-stacking approach to building routines is largely successful because it allows us to hack into our subconscious brain and create a mental link between our current and future habits.

The Habit Stacking Formula

There is a simple formula you can follow as you integrate a new habit into your life:

Immediately after I do [established habit], I will do [new habit].

Habit stacking can be applied to create routines that make your day flow seamlessly.

Habit Stacking Morning Routine Example:

• After I turn off my alarm, I will drink a glass of water.
• After I drink a glass of water, I will brush my teeth.
• After I brush my teeth, I will write down three things that I’m grateful for.
• After I write down three things that I’m grateful for, I will write a to-do list.
• After I write a to-do list, I will start the first task.

Acknowledging the habit stacking formula can also help you acknowledge your unhealthy cues so you can replace an old habit with a new one.

Applying the habit stacking method can revolutionize your daily routines and significantly alter the trajectory of your life. Check out Outrun Gravity for more tips to elevate your health and wellness.