Tuesday, March 25, 2025

Book Review: The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg


Book Review: The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg

The Power of Habit is a powerful and eye-opening book that explains how habits shape our lives, our work, and even our societies. Written by Charles Duhigg, a journalist for The New York Times, this book dives deep into the science of habits in a way that is both easy to understand and engaging to read.

The core idea of the book is the habit loop — a cycle of cue, routine, and reward. Duhigg explains that once we understand this loop, we can start to change bad habits and create good ones. He uses a mix of science, real-life stories, and business examples to show how habits work, from individuals to companies like Starbucks and even social movements like the Montgomery Bus Boycott.

One of the most useful parts of the book is the practical advice. It doesn’t just tell you why habits exist — it helps you learn how to change them. Whether you want to stop smoking, eat healthier, or become more productive, this book gives you a framework to make real changes.

Pros:

  • Simple and engaging writing style

  • Real-life examples that are easy to relate to

  • Useful and practical ideas you can apply in everyday life

  • A good mix of science, storytelling, and psychology

Cons:

  • Some parts repeat the same ideas

  • Focuses more on how habits work than step-by-step personal habit change

Verdict:
This book is great for anyone curious about why we do the things we do — and how we can take control of our behavior. It’s especially helpful for people who want to improve their personal habits or understand how habits can drive success in business.

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)