Everyone wants to belong and so going along with the group is natural. Behaviors can be attractive when they help us fit in. Having a strong desire to fit in means we often have habits aligned with the culture we live in.
We imitate the habits of three groups: the close, the many, and the powerful.
We imitate the habits of three groups: the close, the many, and the powerful.
The close
Proximity has a powerful effect on our behavior. We pick up habits from the people around us. The closer you are to someone, the more likely you are to imitate some of their habits. We soak up the qualities and practices of those around us. You should join a culture where the habits are your desired habits. Culture sets the expectation for what is normal. Surround yourself with people with habits that are the same as those you want yourself.
The many
When we are unsure how to act, we scan the environment and see what others are doing. It can be a smart strategy. However, the normal behavior of the group can overpower the desired behavior of the individual. Change is attractive when it means fitting in.
The powerful
People in general want power and to be recognized. We can copy the habits of successful people in order to become successful ourselves.
Article notes
What are the three groups whose habits we imitate according to Atomic Habits?
The close, the many, and the powerful
Since you tend to pick up habits from the people close to you, what kind of people should you surround yourself with?
People similar to the type of person you want to be