Become New with John Ortberg

Little Habits = Lasting Change

18 snips
Dec 31, 2025
Many goals fail because we focus on outcomes rather than delving into our true identity. Lasting change is about becoming who we aspire to be, not just achieving tasks. Small, faithful habits shape our identities over time. Drawing on insights from James Clear, John discusses the importance of embracing our new selves and the impact of positive identities. He emphasizes starting with tiny actions and cultivating virtues like compassion to form lasting change. It's a journey of patience and growth, one small step at a time.
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INSIGHT

Three Levels Of Change

  • Lasting change happens at three levels: outcomes, processes, and identity.
  • Identity change is deepest and shapes which habits and results stick.
ANECDOTE

The 'It' Sermon About Achievements

  • John Ortberg shares an 'it sermon' story about chasing achievements that felt like they'd finally be 'it'.
  • He found those outcomes satisfied briefly but never delivered lasting fulfillment.
ADVICE

Start With Who You Want To Be

  • Make identity the starting point: decide who you want to become before picking goals.
  • Then choose habits that demonstrate that identity so the behavior follows naturally.
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