Just like how a small change in the organ donation form made a big difference in donation rates across countries, we can change our environment to make big changes in life.

The trick lies in the power of defaults: Make the desired action easier and undesired action tougher.

Curate your environment such that your desired action becomes the default choice. The first few days might be difficult, as your brain would be adjusting to the changed surroundings, but after that, there is no stopping.

You make it easier for your brain to act by reducing the number of options. Fewer options mean fewer choices, and this means fewer distractions. With less energy spent on fighting distractions, we can make the decision faster and focus on the desired habit better.

Here are some samples to change the environment.

To quit smoking:

Do not keep any cigarettes at home and keep a water bottle in your smoking spots. Whenever you feel the impulse to smoke, sip some water.

To read more:

Keep a clean desk with a book open. Sit away from the bed and phone to avoid sleepiness and distractions.

To exercise more:

Keep your gym gear ready. In fact, you can even sleep in your gym clothes if you feel lazy to change in the morning.