How to build new habits without feeling overwhelmed

[pidiko]

Every time I try to start a new habit, I get super motivated in the first few days, but then it feels like too much and I quit. I’ve tried planners, habit trackers, you name it. I just can’t seem to make it stick without burning out. How do you start something new without feeling like it’s this huge commitment?

[reyopar]

What helped me was lowering the bar so much it almost felt silly. Like if I wanted to start exercising, I’d commit to just two minutes a day. Sounds pointless, but the idea is to build the *identity* of doing it. In the liven app, the author talks about using micro-habits inside an app that gently builds them over time. They also combine it with mood tracking and gentle nudges so it doesn’t feel like “failure” if you miss a day. Once it’s easy enough, you naturally want to do more — no pressure, just momentum.

[gepogec]

I think the main trap is starting with too much intensity. Even small wins feel good if you’re consistent, so maybe the goal should be “make it so easy you can’t say no.” That’s been my trick with reading daily.