The Truth About Tiny Habits: How Little Changes Can Lead to a Big Life

I used to think that to change your life, you had to do something drastic. You know, like those people on the internet who wake up at 4 a.m., run a marathon before breakfast, and then build a seven-figure business in their spare time. I thought that to get ahead, I had to live at the extremes, pushing myself to the limit every single day. But you know what? I was wrong.

And I have a feeling you might be, too.

For years, I was stuck in a cycle of starting and stopping. I’d get a burst of motivation, set a bunch of ambitious goals, and then burn out within a week. I wanted to be healthier, wealthier, and happier, but it felt like I was constantly running on a treadmill, putting in a ton of effort but not actually going anywhere. It was frustrating, and honestly, it made me feel like a failure. I’d look at successful people and think, “What’s their secret? What do they have that I don’t?”

Then, about three years ago, I stumbled upon a secret that changed everything. It’s not about grand gestures or extreme makeovers. It’s about something much smaller, something that anyone can do, no matter where you are in life. It’s the power of micro-habits.

These are tiny, almost insignificant habits that you practice consistently, day in and day out. They’re so small that they seem almost too easy, but that’s the beauty of them. Because they’re so easy, you actually stick with them. And over time, these small habits compound, creating a ripple effect that transforms not just your finances, but your physical, mental, and emotional well-being too.

In this post, I’m going to share with you 17 micro-habits that have completely changed my life. These aren’t just theories; they’re practical, actionable steps that you can start implementing today. We’re going to dive deep into how these tiny changes can lead to a big life, and I’ll share some tips on how you can apply them to your own journey. So, if you’re ready to get off the treadmill and start making real, lasting change, then let’s get started.

1. Create More Than You Consume

In today's world, it's incredibly easy to be a consumer. We're constantly bombarded with things to watch, read, and buy. From binge-watching the latest series on Netflix to scrolling endlessly through social media, we can spend hours consuming content without even realizing it. But here's a thought: what if we flipped the script? What if we made a conscious effort to create more than we consume?

According to Thomas Corley, author of "Rich Habits: The Daily Success Habits of Wealthy Individuals," the wealthiest people in the world do just that. His research found that 67% of wealthy people watch TV for an hour or less each day, compared to 77% of people who are struggling financially who watch for an hour or more. Instead of being glued to the screen, they're using their time to create something.

Now, “creating” doesn’t mean you have to be the next Picasso or write a bestselling novel. It can be anything that involves using your mind and skills to produce something new. It could be starting that YouTube channel you’ve been thinking about, writing short stories, learning to code, or even just journaling your thoughts. The key is to shift your focus from passive consumption to active creation.

When you create, you’re not just making something; you’re also developing your knowledge, skills, and experience in a way that consumption never can. To make creation a habit, start small. Dedicate just 15 minutes a day to a creative activity you enjoy. Then, to keep yourself on track, do a regular audit of your creation time versus your consumption time. The goal is to always be creating more than you’re consuming. You’ll be amazed at how this simple shift can boost your confidence, expand your skills, and open up new opportunities.

2. Create Distance from the ‘Wrong’ People

Jim Rohn, a famous motivational speaker, once said, “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” This is a powerful statement, and it’s one that has really stuck with me. The people we surround ourselves with have a profound impact on our mindset, our ambition, and our overall outlook on life.

If you find yourself surrounded by people who are constantly gossiping, complaining, or putting others down, it’s time to create some distance. This negativity can be toxic, and it can hold you back from making positive changes in your life. When you’re constantly hearing about problems and drama, it’s hard to focus on solutions and opportunities.

You can tell a lot about a person by the kind of problems they have. Are they complaining about their boss, their neighbor, or the long line at the grocery store? Or are they talking about how to build wealth, solve a problem, or overcome a challenge? The most successful people are focused on growth and solutions, not on petty grievances.

Now, I know what you’re thinking. “But what if these people are my friends or family?” It’s not always easy to cut people out of your life, and you don’t necessarily have to. But you can be more intentional about who you spend your time with. Seek out people who inspire you, who challenge you, and who are working towards their own goals. If you can’t find these people in your immediate circle, don’t worry. Thanks to the internet, you can surround yourself with positive influences through books, podcasts, and YouTube channels. By consciously choosing who you allow into your inner circle, you can shift your average and start moving in the right direction.

3. Create an “I Can Do This” File

Life is full of ups and downs. There are days when you feel on top of the world, and there are days when you feel like you can’t do anything right. On those down days, it can be hard to find the motivation to keep going. That’s where an “I can do this” file comes in.

This is a simple but powerful tool for building self-confidence and resilience. It’s a collection of your achievements, your milestones, and your moments of triumph. It’s a record of all the times you’ve overcome fear, doubt, and adversity. Whenever you achieve something significant, write it down. Whenever you reach an important milestone, write it down. Whenever you’re paralyzed by fear but push through it anyway, write that down too.

I have a tab in my Notion workspace labeled “I can do this,” and it’s become my personal motivation station. I record everything from big wins to small victories. I remember my first live session on my YouTube channel. I was terrified, but I did it anyway. I saved the whole experience in my file – the fear, the doubt, the positive feedback I received, and the feeling of accomplishment. Now, whenever I’m feeling unsure of myself, I can go back and read that entry and remember what I’m capable of.

Your “I can do this” file can be a physical notebook, a digital document, or even a folder on your computer. The important thing is to have a place where you can collect your wins and remind yourself of your strengths. Life will inevitably throw you curveballs, but with this file, you’ll have a secret weapon to help you get back up and keep moving forward.

4. Show Gratitude

I used to think that gratitude journaling was a bit cheesy. It seemed like one of those fluffy self-help trends that didn’t have any real substance. But then I came across the work of Dr. Sofia Godkin, and she completely changed my perspective. She highlights that the secret to happiness begins with gratitude. So, I decided to give it a try.

Every evening at 8:00 p.m., I get a notification from my Day One app, and I take a few minutes to jot down the highlights of my day and what I’m grateful for. It could be something as simple as the perfect cup of coffee, a thoughtful message from a friend, or making it to a workout. I also like to add a photo from my day to make it more personal.

What I’ve learned is that your mind attracts what you focus on. When you actively look for the good things in your life, you start to notice them more. Instead of dwelling on what went wrong, you start to appreciate the little things that went right. This simple shift in focus can have a profound impact on your overall happiness and well-being.

If you want to try it for yourself, set a five-minute reminder every evening and write down just one thing you’re grateful for. You can use a journal, a notes app on your phone, or an app like Day One. The key is to be consistent. Over time, you’ll train your brain to see the positive in every situation, and you’ll find that you have a lot more to be thankful for than you realized.

5. Automate Your Savings and Investments

Warren Buffett famously said, “Do not save what is left after spending, but spend what is left after saving.” I take this principle a step further by adding investments into the mix: “Do not save and invest what is left after spending, but spend what is left after saving and investing.”

This might sound like a simple play on words, but it’s a powerful mindset shift. For years, I would tell myself that I’d save whatever money was left at the end of the month. The problem was, there was rarely anything left. Life has a way of throwing unexpected expenses at you, and it’s easy to let your savings goals fall by the wayside.

The solution? Automation. I’ve set up a system where a fixed portion of my income is automatically transferred to my savings and investment accounts every month, before I even have a chance to spend it. This has been a game-changer for two reasons. First, it ensures that I’m consistently growing my finances without having to rely on willpower or memory.

Second, it helps me avoid impulse purchases. When the money isn’t sitting in my checking account, I’m much less likely to splurge on that “limited-time offer” that I don’t really need.

Setting up automatic transfers is easy. Most banks and investment platforms allow you to schedule recurring transfers. Start with an amount that you’re comfortable with, even if it’s just a small amount. The key is to be consistent. Over time, you’ll be amazed at how quickly your savings and investments grow.

6. Get Specific with Your Goals

Every year, I write down one big financial goal. In the past, my goals were vague, like “save more money” or “get out of debt.” The problem with these kinds of goals is that they’re not measurable. How do you know when you’ve achieved them? And how do you stay motivated along the way?

The more specific you are with your goals, the more likely you are to achieve them. Instead of saying, “I will save more money,” try something like, “I will save $30,000 for a down payment on my forever home by the end of 2027.” This goal is specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART).

Being specific with your financial goals not only keeps you motivated, but it also helps you break them down into smaller, more manageable milestones. In my example of saving $30,000 by the end of 2027, I can break that down into a monthly savings goal of $1,250. This makes the goal feel less daunting and more achievable.

Take some time to think about your financial goals. What do you want to achieve in the next year, five years, or ten years? Write them down and make them as specific as possible. Then, break them down into smaller steps and track your progress along the way. You’ll be surprised at how much more motivated you are when you have a clear target to aim for.

7. Audit Your Spending

Have you ever gotten to the end of the month and wondered where all your money went? It’s a common feeling, and it’s usually a sign that you’re not tracking your spending. I’ve made auditing my spending a cornerstone habit, and it’s given me a level of financial clarity that I never had before.

I categorize every expense into one of three buckets: fundamental (your essential needs, like housing and food), fun (your lifestyle choices, like dining out and entertainment), and future (your investments in your growth and future self, like savings and education). This isn’t about being restrictive; it’s about being intentional. It’s about understanding where your money is going so you can make conscious decisions that align with your goals.

I use an intentional spending tracker that shows me in real-time how I’m doing against my budget. It’s like having a financial compass that keeps me moving in the right direction. Some people think that budgeting is like being on a strict diet, but I see it as the complete opposite. It’s incredibly empowering to have clarity about your finances, no matter how much you earn. When you know where your money is going, you can make financial decisions with confidence.

If you want to get a handle on your spending, start by tracking it for a month. You can use a notebook, a spreadsheet, or a budgeting app. At the end of the month, review your spending and see where you can make adjustments. You might be surprised at how much you’re spending on things that don’t really matter to you. By auditing your spending, you can free up money to put towards the things that do.

8. Learn Something New About Money Every Week

Warren Buffett once said, “The more you learn, the more you earn.” This is especially true when it comes to money. The world of finance is constantly changing, and there’s always something new to learn. That’s why I make it a habit to block out one hour every week to learn something new about money.

It’s not a huge commitment, but it makes a real difference. I might spend my lunch break reading a book on behavioral finance, or listen to a podcast about investing after dinner. Right now, I’m deep-diving into how our early experiences with money shape our financial mindset. It’s fascinating to see how childhood experiences, even from as young as age seven, can influence whether someone becomes a confident investor or feels anxious about spending.

There’s always something new to learn, and every little bit of financial knowledge adds up. Whether it’s learning about a new investment app, understanding how to negotiate a better salary, or discovering a new savings strategy, these small lessons can open up new doors and help you make smarter financial decisions.

If you want to increase your financial literacy, start by dedicating just one hour a week to learning about money. You can read books, listen to podcasts, watch YouTube videos, or take an online course. The important thing is to be consistent. The more you learn, the more confident you’ll become in your ability to manage your money and build wealth.

9. Stop Caring About Opinions

We all care about what other people think of us to some extent. It’s human nature. But when you let the opinions of others dictate your life, you’re giving away your power. You’re letting other people’s fears and limiting beliefs hold you back from reaching your full potential.

Breaking free from the need for approval is one of the most difficult but rewarding habits you can cultivate. When you stop caring so much about what other people think, you start to venture out more, take bigger risks, and live life on your own terms.

One thing that has helped me overcome this is asking myself a simple question: “In the grand scheme of achieving my life’s goals, how important is this person’s opinion?” Most of the time, the answer is “not very important.” This helps me stay laser-focused on what I want to achieve and how I want to achieve it, based on my own values, not the opinions of others.

This doesn’t mean you should be a jerk or disregard all feedback. It’s about being selective about whose opinions you let in. Surround yourself with people who support you, who believe in you, and who want to see you succeed. And when it comes to the critics and the naysayers, learn to tune them out. Your life is your own, and you’re the only one who gets to decide how to live it.

10. Understand the “Yes Trap”

I used to be a chronic people-pleaser. I would say yes to every request, invitation, and opportunity that came my way, even when my plate was already overflowing. I was afraid of letting people down, of missing out, or of being seen as selfish. But all that saying “yes” was doing was leaving me feeling burnt out, resentful, and completely overwhelmed.

This is a phenomenon that psychologists call the “yes trap.” It’s a deep-rooted feeling that we should always be agreeable and accommodating, even at our own expense. But the consequences of the yes trap are serious. It can lead to burnout, resentment, and a complete neglect of our own self-care. It can also cause us to miss out on opportunities that are actually aligned with our goals, because we’re too busy with things that aren’t.

Learning to say “no” has been a hard-won battle for me, but it’s been one of the most liberating things I’ve ever done. The key to escaping the yes trap is to get crystal clear on your goals. When you know what you want to achieve, it becomes much easier to say no to anything that doesn’t support those goals.

Here’s a simple two-step process you can use. First, get really clear on your goals. Write them down and review them regularly. Second, whenever a new request comes in, ask yourself, “Will this help me achieve my goals, or is it a potential distraction?” If it’s a distraction, then you have your answer. It’s not about being selfish; it’s about being strategic with your time and energy. You can’t be everything to everyone, and that’s okay. By learning to say “no” to the things that don’t matter, you can say “yes” to the things that do.

11. Invest in Yourself

The best investment you can ever make isn’t in stocks, commodities, or even real estate. It’s in yourself. The returns on self-investment compound in the same way that financial investments do. The more you learn, the more you grow, and the more valuable you become.

Investing in yourself can take many forms. It could be pursuing higher education, improving your fitness, practicing self-care, or learning a new skill. It’s about putting yourself first and making your own growth and well-being a priority. This is not selfish; it’s essential. You can’t pour from an empty cup, and by investing in yourself, you’re ensuring that you have the resources you need to show up as your best self in all areas of your life.

I’m a big believer in lifelong learning, and I’m always looking for ways to expand my knowledge and skills. One of my favorite ways to do this is through online learning platforms. There are so many amazing resources available that make it easy and fun to learn new things. Whether you want to learn to code, master a new language, or dive into data science, there’s a course out there for you.

Take some time to think about how you can invest in yourself. What’s one thing you could do this month to improve your skills, your health, or your happiness? It could be something as simple as reading a book, taking a walk every day, or signing up for an online course. Whatever it is, make it a priority. You are your most valuable asset, and by investing in yourself, you’re making a down payment on your future success.

12. Diversify Your Financial Life

You’ve probably heard the saying, “Don’t put all your eggs in one basket.” This is especially true when it comes to your finances. Relying on a single source of income is risky. If you lose your job or your business takes a hit, you could find yourself in a precarious financial situation.

That’s why it’s so important to diversify your financial life by creating multiple income streams. Most millionaires have multiple sources of income, and it’s a cornerstone of building long-term wealth. When you have money coming in from different places, you’re not only increasing your earning potential, but you’re also creating a safety net for yourself.

Today, my online income comes from a variety of sources, including brand sponsorships, affiliate marketing, YouTube AdSense, investments, and my own products. It didn’t happen overnight, but by consistently exploring new opportunities, I’ve been able to build a resilient and diversified financial life.

If you’re wondering how you can create a second income stream, start by taking stock of your skills, experience, and interests. What are you good at? What do you enjoy doing? How can you monetize those things? There are endless possibilities, from freelancing and consulting to starting a side hustle or investing in dividend-paying stocks.

One word of caution: fight the temptation to create multiple income streams at the same time. Start with one, and focus on making it self-sustaining. Once you’ve done that, you can move on to the next opportunity. Building multiple income streams takes time and effort, but it’s one of the most powerful things you can do to secure your financial future.

13. Simplify Decision-Making

Have you ever felt exhausted by the sheer number of decisions you have to make in a day? From what to wear and what to eat for breakfast to which task to tackle first at work, we’re constantly making choices. This is a real phenomenon known as decision fatigue, and it can drain your mental energy and lead to poor choices.

Think about some of the most successful people in the world. Steve Jobs was known for his iconic black turtleneck, blue jeans, and New Balance sneakers. Mark Zuckerberg is often seen in a gray t-shirt and jeans. They both understood the power of simplifying their decisions. By wearing the same outfit every day, they eliminated one decision from their day, freeing up mental energy for more important matters.

I’ve applied this principle to my own life by creating a “work uniform” for the days I’m filming content. It might seem like a small thing, but it’s one less thing I have to think about. This has not only saved me time and energy, but it’s also saved me money. When you have a simplified wardrobe, you’re less likely to make impulse purchases.

Think about the areas of your life where you can streamline your decisions. Could you plan your meals for the week? Could you create a morning routine that you follow every day? Could you declutter your workspace to minimize distractions? The more you can automate the small, repetitive decisions in your life, the more mental energy you’ll have for the big, important ones.

14. Network with Intent

There’s a saying that your network is your net worth, and it’s true. The people you know can open doors to opportunities that you might never have found on your own. But networking isn’t just about collecting business cards or adding connections on LinkedIn. It’s about building genuine relationships with people who you can learn from and collaborate with.

I recently had a conversation with Chris Donnelly on my podcast, and he shared a story that really drove this point home. When he was launching his new business, he made it a point to reach out to 50 or more people a month. He understood the importance of the “who” factor in everything we do, and it paid off. His business made $10 million in its first year.

This inspired me to be more intentional with my own networking. I’ve been putting myself out there more, reaching out to people I admire, and looking for ways to add value to their lives. It’s not just about what you can get; it’s also about what you can give. When you approach networking with a spirit of generosity, you’ll be amazed at the relationships you can build.

Don’t be afraid to reach out to people you want to connect with. You never know who might be the key to unlocking your next opportunity. And remember, it’s a two-way street. Always be thinking about how you can help the other person. By being intentional and adding value, you can build a powerful network that will support you for years to come.

15. Take Action Before You Feel Ready

How many times have you had a great idea but talked yourself out of it because you didn’t feel ready? We tell ourselves that we need more time, more experience, more money, or more something before we can start. But the truth is, there’s no perfect time to start something new. You’ll never feel 100% ready, and tomorrow never comes.

Whenever a good idea comes to mind, I try not to procrastinate. I take a leap of faith and get the first step underway. It might not be perfect, and I might make some mistakes along the way, but that’s okay. It’s all part of the learning process. The key is to trust your gut and just take that first step, even if you don’t feel ready.

Think about it. The most successful people in the world didn’t wait until they had all the answers. They started with what they had, and they figured things out along the way. They weren’t afraid to fail, because they knew that failure is just a stepping stone to success.

So, what’s that idea that you’ve been putting off? What’s that dream that you’ve been telling yourself you’re not ready for? I’m here to tell you that you are ready. You have everything you need to take that first step. Don’t let fear hold you back. Take a deep breath, and just go for it. You might be surprised at what you’re capable of.

16. Ask the Questions

Money is a taboo topic in our society. We’re taught that it’s rude to talk about it, and as a result, many of us are struggling in silence. Research shows that over 45% of Americans don’t talk about money with their family, friends, or partners. But the same research also states that 66% of Americans believe that conversations about money are key to achieving financial freedom.

If you want to achieve your financial goals, you have to be willing to have the conversations. This doesn’t mean you have to go around asking people how much they make. It’s about creating a safe space to talk about money in a way that is open, honest, and non-judgmental.

Having conversations about money doesn’t have to be about comparison. It can be focused on understanding people’s financial values and learning their strategies. You can kick off a financial conversation in a casual, non-intrusive way by asking open-ended questions like, “I’ve been thinking about budgeting lately. How do you manage yours?”

Next time you’re with a friend, try a financial conversation starter. Be willing to share your own perspective and experiences as well. The more we can normalize conversations about money, the more we can learn from each other and support each other on our financial journeys.

17. The 1% Progress Rule

When we set big, audacious goals, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. We look at the mountain we have to climb, and we feel like we’ll never reach the top. But what if you didn’t have to climb the whole mountain at once? What if you could just take one small step every day?

This is the idea behind the 1% progress rule. It’s about making small, consistent improvements to your financial situation each month. This could mean increasing your savings rate by 1%, trimming your expenses by 1%, or finding a creative way to boost your income by 1%. It might not seem like much, but these tiny improvements add up over time.

Here’s the thing: even a tiny 1% improvement every month can lead to meaningful results over time. By focusing on small, consistent progress, you’re setting yourself up for long-term financial success without feeling overwhelmed. It’s about building momentum and creating a positive feedback loop that keeps you motivated.

So, what’s one small thing you can do this month to improve your financial situation by 1%? It could be as simple as canceling a subscription you don’t use, packing your lunch one more day a week, or picking up a side gig for a few hours. Whatever it is, just do it. And then do it again next month. Before you know it, you’ll be well on your way to achieving your financial goals.

The Takeaway: Your Big Life is Built on Small Habits

And there you have it – 17 micro-habits that have the power to change your life. It’s not about making drastic changes overnight. It’s about making small, consistent choices every single day. It’s about choosing to create more than you consume, to surround yourself with positive influences, to be grateful for what you have, and to invest in your own growth.

These habits might seem small and insignificant on their own, but when you practice them consistently, they compound over time, creating a ripple effect that will transform every area of your life.

You don’t have to be perfect. You just have to be consistent. Start with one or two of these habits, and once they become a part of your routine, add another.

Remember, your big life is built on small habits. So, what are you waiting for? Start building your big life today, one tiny habit at a time.