Habit stacking is a quick and easy way to add a new habit to your daily routine. The phrase was coined by S.J Scott, author of Habit Stacking: 97 Small Life Changes That Take Five Minutes or Less.
Habit stacking means grouping habits together to help make them stick. Ideally, you’ll start with an ingrained habit (like brushing your teeth) and stack a desirable habit on top (like deep breathing).
The original habit – brushing your teeth – serves as a cue or trigger for the healthy habit you’re trying to create. This makes it easy for you to remember the new habit, and over time, make it automatic.
Start with the habit you’d like to create, then find an existing habit to use as an anchor.
Meditate for one minute (new habit) while waiting for the jug to boil (anchor habit)
Read a book (new habit) when you get into bed for the night (anchor habit)
Share what you’re grateful for (new habit) before eating dinner (anchor habit)
Over time, you can stack more habits together and create more comprehensive rituals. Start small and build from there.