The habit of a daytime

02/10/2025, Brighton, UK. The learning board at TestBash/MoTaCon 25.

Have you ever formed a habit? What was it about the approach you took that made it easy to form the habit? Or was it just the thing that made it easy?

Turns out it's the habit loop that probably did it: Cue, Craving, Response, Reward.

Let's use an example for the MoTaverse:

1. Cue: Every work day just before my lunch break I want to spend a small bit of time completing one lesson of an MoT on-demand course. (make it obvious)


2. Craving: Once complete I'll treat myself to a sweet treat as part of my lunch break. (make it attractive)


3. Response: I'll bookmark the on-demand course in my visible bookmarks bar as a visual reminder and for easy access. I'll switch on do not disturb on my iMac. (make it easy)


4. Reward: I'll appreciate the star I get for completing a lesson, plus the little knowledge boost. I'll apply the never miss twice rule which means it's ok if I miss a day yet must make sure I open up and start the next lesson the next day. Bonus reward: The instructor also receives a star. (make it satisfying)

I like this approach because it keeps things small (atomic) and focuses on the system, as opposed to just the outcome. 🚀

Watch: The Power of Habit with Alex Reynolds.

What habit forming systems/techniques have you used? What blockers have you faced and how did you overcome them?