The reviewer enjoyed Charles Duhigg's 'The Power of Habit' for its engaging storytelling and practical advice on habit formation. They found the book's exploration of individual and organizational habits fascinating, particularly the idea that changing habits is easier than eliminating them.
The reviewer was impressed by 'The Power of Habit' by Charles Duhigg, noting its engaging storytelling and practical advice. The book discusses the habit loop—trigger, behavior, reward—and provides examples of both pathological and less harmful habits. The reviewer found the idea that changing habits is easier than eliminating them particularly intriguing. The book also explores how habits can transform organizations, with case studies like Alcoa's focus on safety leading to improved profitability. The reviewer enjoyed the book's insights and found it thought-provoking, though they noted the style can be occasionally breathless.
Quick quotes
The book, which is a Gladwell-influenced science-plus-stories-plus-practical-advice offering, was a big hit about a decade ago, but not something I’d settled down to read before. I was impressed: although the style is occasionally breathless, Duhigg spins a good yarn and has found a good selection of unfamiliar tales to tell. It’s a pleasure to read.
The most interesting idea (which seems plausible but I’ve not checked) is that it’s much easier to change a habit than eliminate it.
The paperback of The Data Detective is out on 1 February in the US and Canada.