How to Change

Metadata

The Book in 3 Sentences

• Katy Milkman argues that lasting change starts with figuring out what's actually getting in your way—whether it's procrastination, forgetfulness, impulsivity, or something else—and then choosing a strategy that fits that specific obstacle.
• Instead of relying on motivation alone, it introduces practical ideas like the fresh start effect, temptation bundling, commitment devices, planning prompts, and designing better defaults to make good habits easier.
• The biggest takeaway for me is that successful change is about building better systems, not becoming a different person. Rather than depending on willpower, the book encourages designing your environment around your predictable weaknesses and making it easier to get back on track when you inevitably slip.