James Clear’s Atomic Habits has become the go-to book on habits, so I was skeptical if Wendy Wood’s book could add much. But I was pleasantly surprised.

I walked away with some fresh ideas — and perhaps more importantly, some language to frame them. For example, when I put students through timed drills, I can now say we’re training their “procedural memory”, which sounds a lot kinder and more intentional than “I’m making you suffer for practice.”

One insight that stuck: rituals are often more effective for stress relief than just reminding yourself to “stay calm.” I’ve never been much of a ritual person, but I might try adding a small pre-presentation ritual the next time I speak at a workshop.

The environment point also hit home. Willpower feels heroic, but environment is what quietly wins. Looking back, I realize that’s why I dragged myself to the void deck to study during my ‘A’ levels — not because I had immense discipline, but because I’d placed myself where studying was easier than slacking off. Now I’m asking: am I designing my current environment cleverly enough?

I also appreciated the observation that cash payments add friction, curbing overspending. But here in Singapore, I can’t help thinking cashless wins because of rewards points — friction reduction and cashback. A contextual twist, but one I’m glad I could make for myself.