Most people think habits are about willpower . but they’re really about design. The Four Laws of Behavior Change offer a framework to create habits that are obvious, appealing, simple, and satisfying. By designing around these principles, you make habits easier to start and harder to forget.

The Habit Loop Simplified

The four laws are built around the habit loop:

• Make it Obvious: Use clear cues. Visual triggers work better than vague reminders.

• Make it Attractive: Pair habits with things you enjoy. Positive emotion reinforces action.

• Make it Easy: Lower the effort. The less resistance, the more likely you’ll follow through.

• Make it Satisfying: Add a reward, check off a streak, or simply acknowledge progress. Satisfaction creates reinforcement.

Create Habits You Actually Want to Keep:
Want to start journaling?

• Keep your notebook on your pillow (obvious)

• Pair it with tea or soft music (attractive)

• Write just one line (easy)

• Use a streak tracker or say “done” aloud (satisfying)

The more you enjoy the process, the more likely you’ll repeat it!

Bring Structure, Not Struggle:

You don’t need to force habits, you can design them. When you shape your environment and routines around these four laws, you create habits that require less energy and feel good to maintain.
It’s not about discipline it’s about making the right thing the easy thing.