Activity-based are more flexible with a bit more ambiguity. They help you build structure
into a typically structure-less life. The tricky part is in knowing precisely when one activity
ends and the other begins. If I am to start writing something after lunch at a restaurant,
do I get to settle in and check the mail before I start writing? Must I go straight to the
computer? You may think, that doesn't matter, but it does, because as the power of mini
habits show us, little tasks can easily extend into bigger tasks.Suddenly you'll find yourself
organizing your entire desk and remember, oh yeah,I was supposed to be writing. Small
steps get us started and allow us to build momentum towards a meaningful goal,but it
works the other way too. If you allow yourself small concessions, soon enough you'll find
them growing against your will.
The question of time-based or activitybased cues isn't all that important. They can both
work just fine. What is important is that you choose, and choose firmly. Not making a
decision here is a big mistake, but before you lock down your choice, there is one more
option that might surprise you. It is my preferred choice for all of my current mini habits.
Freedom-based, Non-specific Habit Cues (General Mini Habits)
Traditional habit books will tell you about the cue-behavior-reward structure of habits
from studies, and then proceed to tell you the obvious next step-pick your cue,behavior,
and reward. But what if you want to do something like think more positively in general?
What if you want to do something at varying times? Mini habits open up a new realm
of possibility here. The following is especially relevant for flexible schedules and general
habits like gratefulness.