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Writer's pictureTim Peden

Law 2: Make It Attractive (Atomic Habits)

The second principle or law of atomic habits is to make the action attractive. This concept may seem straightforward, but it operates subconsciously, influencing our behaviour in ways we often accept as 'just the way things are' or 'how everyone else does it.' Recognizing the various forces that shape our actions is crucial. Such awareness empowers us to craft a life that aligns with our highest aspirations, allowing us to embody the person we are meant to be, make meaningful changes in our lives, and positively impact those around us and beyond. It begins with refining our thinking. Understanding the dopamine loop enables us to pinpoint and halt addictive behaviours. Employing strategies like temptation bundling and habit stacking can automate positive actions or associate enjoyable activities with beneficial habits. Moreover, the company we keep significantly influences our habits and behaviours. It is vital to reflect on our social circles and their impact on our actions. Ultimately, we are inspired to harmonize our habits with the teachings of Christ.



The first idea is to keep our eyes focused on what is godly and good. We need to keep our minds focused and be closed to any activity that is linked to dopamine addiction. From a Christian perspective, humans being drawn to exaggerated realities can be compared to the biblical warning against coveting, as stated in Exodus 20:17, which teaches not to desire what is not ours. This aligns with the idea that supernormal stimuli can lead to an unnatural attraction, much like the allure of hyper-palatable foods. The Bible speaks to this in Philippians 3:19, which mentions those "whose god is their stomach," highlighting the danger of letting physical desires control us. This also can be the case with any addictive food or activity, including gaming, drugs, alcohol and images on the internet.


The notion of making habits attractive to ensure they stick can be seen through Colossians 3:2, which advises us to set our minds on things above, not earthly things, suggesting that our focus should be on spiritual growth rather than temporal pleasures. The dopamine-driven feedback loop resembles the biblical understanding of reaping what we sow. Galatians 6:7-8 explains that living to please the flesh leads to destruction while living to please the Spirit leads to eternal life. Living a life not driven by a dopamine dependency helps you live in control of your actions. The anticipation of pleasure releasing dopamine can be compared to the Christian hope and faith in God's promises, as described in Romans 5:2-5, where the anticipation of God's glory produces a hope that does not disappoint. While the world offers temporary rewards that may lead to harmful habits, the Christian worldview encourages seeking fulfilment in God's eternal promises, leading to lasting joy and peace.



The next thing we can look at is completing tasks that we enjoy with ones that are good but we do not enjoy and have a chain of habits that we do automatically after each other. Temptation bundling and habit stacking can be practical strategies for improving one's life by aligning daily actions with one's values and goals. From a Christian perspective, these concepts can be supported by scripture, which encourages self-discipline and intentional living. For instance, 1 Corinthians 10:13 speaks of God providing a way out of temptation, which can be interpreted as an encouragement to form positive habits that avoid the pitfalls of negative ones. Similarly, James 1:12 blesses those who remain steadfast under trial, suggesting that the discipline of habit stacking can lead to spiritual rewards.


Starting the day with a disliked task, like planning, while enjoying a favourite thing, such as coffee, can be likened to the Biblical principle of seeking first the kingdom of God (Matthew 6:33), prioritising spiritual growth over immediate gratification. The habit-stacking formula echoes the wisdom found in Luke 16:10, which teaches that faithfulness in small things leads to trustworthiness in more significant matters. Therefore, completing a necessary task before indulging in a desired one can be seen as a way to cultivate faithfulness and responsibility.


In essence, these strategies can be viewed as modern applications of timeless Biblical principles, encouraging believers to live wisely and purposefully, making the most of every opportunity (Ephesians 5:15-16), and building habits that honour God and contribute to personal and spiritual growth.


The next step in becoming the person God has made us to be is to be aware of the power of the people around us. The Christian worldview acknowledges the significant influence of family and friends in shaping habits, as Proverbs 27:17, "Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another," highlighting the role of close relationships in personal development. The Bible also recognizes the power of social norms and the desire to belong, as Paul advised in 1 Corinthians 15:33, "Do not be misled: 'Bad company corrupts good character.'" This suggests that the company one keeps can profoundly impact one's habits and behaviours.


Finally, resisting societal pressure and starting with who we are called to be and acting is essential. The concept of imitating the close is reflected in the biblical principle found in Proverbs 22:6, "Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it," indicating that early influences have long-lasting effects. The idea of imitating the many is cautioned against in Romans 12:2, which says, "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." This verse encourages individuals to resist societal pressures and develop habits that align with Christian values. Imitating the powerful resonates with the biblical teaching of looking to Christ as the ultimate role model, as stated in 1 Corinthians 11:1, "Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ." Christians are encouraged to emulate the habits and character of Jesus, who holds the highest status in the Christian faith and whose approval and respect are most desirable.


In the Christian worldview, habits can be seen as a reflection of one's inner life and spiritual health. Romans 12:2 advises not to conform to the pattern of this world but to be transformed by the renewing of the mind, which can be applied to forming habits. This transformation is akin to reprogramming our minds to focus on the benefits of good habits, as Philippians 4:8 encourages thinking about whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable. The desire to move from a current state to a desired one can be supported by Philippians 3:14, which speaks of pressing on toward the goal of winning the prize for which God has called us heavenward in Christ Jesus. This suggests that our actions and habits should align with our ultimate spiritual goals. Furthermore, reframing our perspective on challenges is echoed in James 1:2-4, which tells us to consider it pure joy when facing trials because the testing of faith develops perseverance. This shift in perspective can turn burdens into opportunities for growth, aligning with the idea that habits are attractive when associated with positive feelings. In essence, the Bible provides a framework for understanding and reshaping our habits that align with our faith and spiritual aspirations.


In conclusion, the journey towards cultivating habits that resonate with our identity in Christ is profound and practical. It begins deep within our subconscious, influenced by long-standing behaviours and societal norms, yet we transform through conscious awareness and intentional action. As we align our habits with the teachings of Christ, we not only enhance our own lives but also extend that positive impact to those around us. The scripture reminds us in Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me," empowering us to break free from the dopamine-driven cycles of addiction and embrace enjoyable and beneficial habits. Our social circles play a pivotal role in this transformation, as they can either propel us forward or hold us back. Link yourself to a healthy social circle and be encouraged by the people around you. Therefore, let us choose wisely, fostering connections that uplift and inspire us to live out the fullness of our God-given potential.


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