How to build better habits

Masculinity and self-mastery

“We are what we repeatedly do,” Aristotle famously said. “Excellence, then, is not an act but a habit.” You’ve probably seen this quoted many times: schools and gyms often have it on their walls. And it’s true. Actions shape habits. Habits shape character. Character shapes destiny.

The man who doesn’t exercise because he’s deterred by the thought of hard work grows in effeminacy and shows that vice in all areas of his life. The man who develops the habit of living well below his means and investing some money each month ends up wealthy.

But you’re probably wondering how to change your habits, right? That’s the hard bit — the bit you really need to know — and motivational speeches always seem to leave it out, but here’s what you need to know.