James Clear’s acclaimed book Atomic Habits is one of the most widely read and frequently recommended modern books on habit formation. It features stories and research that support how to implement successful habit changes and resulting desired outcomes. Clear recommends starting with self-reflection on personal identity. In many cases, our identity stems from our personal beliefs and values, previous experiences, and developed personalities. However, we ultimately hold the power to respond to opportunities and circumstances presented and decide how we think, act, and perceive ourselves each day. When we apply this to behavior change in ourselves, Clear says “the ultimate form of intrinsic motivation is when a habit becomes part of your identity” and your behaviors are typically a reflection of that identity. We hold the power to decide what we think of ourselves and can further prove it with each “small win.”
Our Thoughts Reflect Who We Are
We can see this powerful advice represented in the success and mind of American Olympic freestyle skier, Eileen Gu. During her recent run at the 2026 winter Olympics, Gu was asked about her incredible ability to answer questions so “quickly and comprehensively” when addressing her processes as an athlete and sharing her own ideas and opinions. She credited this ability to her introspective and reflective nature and concluded “you can control what you think and, therefore, control who you are.” Showcasing the power of “who you say you are” becoming “who you are” in practice and realized.
Values that Ignite Stewards of the Planet
Through a combination of who we tell ourselves we are and reinforcing that identity through each “small win,” we can develop our desired habits and identity striding towards our desired goals. The following list of values, expressed in thought and practice, can ignite and reinforce the identity of someone who is a “steward of planet Earth.”
Wonder and Awe
Many experience a deep appreciation for Earth’s beauty, provision, complexity, expanse, and resilience, finding peace and comfort in its presence. In this modern age, we are quick to get answers using technology at our fingertips when prompted with a question from our mind. However, looking at something unknown allows for natural wonder and awe in that moment rather than an answer that keeps us moving.
“The day you teach the child the name of the bird, the child will never see that bird again.” – Jiddu Krishnamurti
Simply taking a sensory walk in nature allows for child-like wonder, keen observation, and a deep appreciation and recognition of our planet Earth’s unique life and its stories in our midst.
Empathy
By regularly thinking of and listening to others, we practice the ability to think outside of ourselves and about the thoughts and experiences of those around us in our lives. Empathy encourages care, kindness, and compassion. Universal emotions and experiences are shared by all people and resources by all life on our planet. There is a shared responsibility to support the Earth’s ability to continue to replenish, recover, and provide our needed resources.
Gratitude
Being grateful for what we have allows us to see how we are provided and cared for by the support of others in our lives and our planet’s resources and space. This nurtures a desire to take care of
what we have, to not waste our resources, and be stewards of the planet we call home.
Belonging and Community
The possibilities of what we can do together only amplifies our resources, connections, ideas, and our ability to solve shared problems. Spending time with those that know your strengths and interests creates a sense of belonging, support, and shared problem solving and actions. Many of the problems we face collectively can be best solved in community as all of us share this planet.
Creativity and Imagination
These cornerstones of innovation begin with “What if” questions. Human original questions lead to original thoughts that lead to innovative ideas. Creating environments of wonder, marveling at beauty, or completing mundane tasks can lead to those light bulb moments that solve real problems or launch innovative ideas that advance us forward.
Persistence and Resilience to Failure
When trying new things, failure comes more than success. The ability to recover and persevere through failures is an essential skill. Failure also raises new knowledge and learning that can apply as we keep moving forward.
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