JAMES CLEAR

Not being cognizant of the obstacles makes you more likely to relapse and give up when you hit them. But having a plan to deal with the obstacles when the urges hit make you less likely to relapse.

Research and think it through to anticipate your obstacles. Then make a plan for what ...

Before you start your habit change, think through your motivations. Why are you doing this? What will keep you going when you forget your reasons?

Public commitment is a big motivator, but you should have internal ones too. Write these down in your plan.

• Have a six month emergency fund and save 10% of your salary.
• The ability to stick around for a long time, without wiping or being forced to give up is what makes the biggest difference.
• Your success as an investor will be determined by how you respond to punctuated moments of...