I’ve been meaning to read the book Atomic Habits by James Clear for at least a year (probably longer). I finally completed it a few days ago. Funny enough, reading this book was part of my way to reignite a reading habit. I used to be the kid that could get lost in a book for hours. I literally entered the characters’ worlds and cared about their well being. After I started college, reading became more of an educational tool than a form of leisure, to the point where I forgot how much joy it brought me.

One of the biggest lessons that I learned about habits was that they are less about an action and more about an identity. Before I could create better habits or identify negative ones, I had to ask myself, “Who do I want to be?” I decided that I wanted to be a woman who:

• Gives the first fruits of her day to the Lord in prayer and devotion
• Is a voracious reader of educational and entertaining literature
• Uses sleep and nutrition as the primary pillars of health
• Reflects on her growth and development through journalling

These identities can be established through certain habits, and they can be greatly hindered by negative habits. One of my most destructive habits is poor sleep. My sleep issues began in 2015, and it has been a battle ever since. There are periods when it improves, but the fact that I’m often aware of how poorly I sleep is an indicator that it is a problem. I think that developing positive habits, in order to become the best version of myself, is an important part of my Christian walk.

When I study good habits in the context of the fruit of the Spirit, I find that the development of good habits requires patience, faithfulness, and self-control. This not only yields love, joy, peace, kindness, generosity, and gentleness, but also helps me to grow deeper in patience, faithfulness, and self-control. It’s a self-replenishing cycle. All together, these attributes help me to grow as an individual, while also helping me to “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”

I believe that personally-tailored habits set the stage for God to reveal His plans and purpose for me.

• As I spend devotional time with Him, I am learning to discern His voice.
• As I read more, I am gaining knowledge that can later be transformed into wisdom.
• As I improve my health, I am honoring my body as a temple of the Holy Spirit.
• As I journal, I am keeping a record of God’s goodness.

I equate becoming discerning, wise, healthy, and grateful, as me doing my homework, in preparation for the masterclass that I’m about to enroll in—taught by none other than the Master Himself.