Why Most Habits Fail (And How 'Badass Habits' Helps You Finally Succeed!)

Every January, millions of people vow to change their lives—eat better, exercise more, spend less, meditate daily. Yet by February, most have abandoned their resolutions. Why is lasting change so hard? Jen Sincero’s 'Badass Habits' offers a roadmap that actually works, grounded in both science and personal experience.

The Four Biggest Mistakes People Make

1. Lack of Awareness: You can’t change what you don’t see. Most habits run on autopilot, triggered by cues you barely notice. Sincero recommends tracking your routines for a week—write down every snack, every scroll, every skipped workout. Awareness is the first step to freedom.
2. Ignoring Triggers: Habits don’t happen in a vacuum. They’re set off by specific cues—boredom, stress, an empty kitchen, a buzzing phone. By identifying your triggers, you can disrupt the cycle and replace old patterns with new ones.
3. Relying on Willpower: Motivation fades, especially when life gets busy. Sincero’s advice? Make your new habit as easy as possible. Prep your environment, reduce friction, and automate your routines. The easier it is, the more likely you’ll stick with it.
4. Neglecting Identity: If you still see yourself as someone who 'just isn’t a morning person' or 'can’t stick to a budget,' your habits will never last. Sincero teaches you to shift your identity first—act like the person you want to become, and your habits will follow.

How to Turn Failure into Success

Real change happens when you stop chasing perfection and start celebrating progress. Sincero and leading researchers agree: setbacks are inevitable, but they’re not the end of the story. Instead, use them as feedback. Reflect on what went wrong, adjust your strategy, and try again. Self-compassion is your secret weapon—those who forgive themselves bounce back faster and go further. 1

Tools That Actually Work

• Habit Tracking: Use a journal, app, or calendar to record your efforts. Each checkmark is a mini-celebration and a powerful motivator.
• Environmental Tweaks: Make the healthy choice the easy choice. Keep your running shoes by the door, prep veggies in advance, or set your phone to 'Do Not Disturb' during focus time.
• Boundaries: Protect your time and energy. Learn to say no, delegate, and prioritize your own needs—without guilt.
• Community: Find a buddy, join a group, or share your progress online. Social support multiplies your chances of success.

Stories of Real Transformation

Sincero shares countless stories of readers who overcame setbacks by applying these principles. One reader, after years of failed diets, finally succeeded by tracking her triggers, prepping healthy snacks, and celebrating every small win—no matter how minor. Another broke a social media addiction by setting clear boundaries and enlisting a friend for accountability. These stories prove that anyone can change, with the right tools and mindset. 3

Conclusion: You’re Not Alone

If you’ve failed at changing your habits before, you’re in good company. The key is not to give up, but to get smarter. With the wisdom of 'Badass Habits,' you have everything you need to break the cycle, bounce back from setbacks, and become the person you’ve always wanted to be.