by Brooke Forry

What is a Keystone Habit?

Keystone habits can be defined as “small changes or habits that people introduce into their routines that unintentionally carry over into other aspects of their lives,” according to Charles Duhigg in his book, The Power of Habit.

I've definitely seen some of my habits unexpectedly pay off in other areas of my life.

In late 2018 I started reading in bed each night before going to sleep — I had almost entirely abandoned reading for pleasure since having kids, missed it greatly, and nighttime was the only time I knew I could fit it in every day.

I also used to have a really hard time turning off my brain and falling asleep... but since adopting my nightly reading habit, I have found that my thoughts are no longer swirling and I fall asleep within minutes of putting my book down.

This never, ever, EVER happened to me before.

Yes, even during a stress- and anxiety-filled pandemic, I've actually slept really well, which has been so important to my well-being. (Not to mention the obvious benefits that reading more has brought me!)

Since reading has become the very last thing I do before going to bed, it has also meant avoiding any late night scrolling on my phone.

Another keystone habit that has really impacted my days: exercising first thing in the morning.

I resisted this one for a loooooong time. I am not a morning person (see: late night reading sessions above!), and always took evening fitness classes pre-Covid. Since Covid shut down my fitness studio, I’ve started doing their streaming classes online, and for a while was trying to fit them in sometime midday.

A few months ago I found myself making excuses when work would get busy or the afternoon wasn’t a good time to take over our family room to do a workout, so I decided to try working out first thing in the morning. Dragging myself out of bed early and immediately putting on my workout clothes is definitely not easy, but the benefits cannot be denied:

• I am showered with “real” (non-pajama) clothes on by 8:30am every weekday (hey, it’s a pandemic: I’m definitely still wearing leggings and sweatshirts, and no judgment if you wear pajamas all day! It’s just never good for my mood or morale)

• I feel more prepared to start my workday (and have a clearer head to do so)

• I am in a better mood within a few minutes of starting my workout

• I make healthier food choices throughout the day

• I am more productive overall

It’s safe to say that this is a routine and habit that will stick, now that I’ve reaped the benefits.

What are some Keystone Habits that you’ve seen pay off in other areas of your life?