Identity Reframe #002: Habits vs Identity Signals
A habit that doesn’t reinforce an underlying identity is just a more sophisticated way of being busy.
“Build better habits.”
That’s the modern wisdom. Right?
Wake up early every single day.
Read 10 pages daily.
Hit the gym regularly.
Write 500 words routinely.
All great habits. But there’s one problem:
You can do all of them… and still feel lost.
Because a habit that doesn’t reinforce an underlying identity is just a more sophisticated way of being busy.
A habit is the repetition of a behavior.
An Identity Signal is the meaning behind that behavior. It's any action, behavior, or choice that serves as evidence for a particular identity reinforced.
Putting on your running shoes?
Don’t just see it as a habit.
See it as an Identity Signal: I’m a runner.
Opening a book instead of your phone?
Don’t just see it as a choice.
See it as an Identity Signal: I’m a learner.
Speaking up in a meeting when your voice shakes?
Don’t just see it as a behavior change.
See it as an Identity Signal: I’m a leader.
The Reframe
Instead of asking: “How do I build this habit?”
Ask: “What Identity Signal am I trying to send if I build this habit?”
Viewing your habits as Identity Signals shifts the focus
from chasing consistency to Reinforcing Identity.
The goal is no longer to "not break the chain."
The goal is to send a clear, consistent signal to yourself:
“I already am the person I intend to become.”
Each signal strengthens the "muscle" of that identity.
Each signal makes the next one easier to send.
It’s no longer about ticking boxes.
It’s now about expanding your Identity.
And The Litmus Test
After you complete a habit, ask yourself:
“Do I feel more like myself… or less?”
If it doesn’t reinforce the self you want to step into…
It’s just another form of procrastination
masquerading as productivity.
Focus less on building habits.
Focus more on signaling the right Identity.
Because when the right Identity is consistently reinforced,
right habits effortlessly follow.
Stay genuine! Stay authentic!
Nik Pathran
PS: I appreciate you reading this newsletter. Thanks to the new subscribers!
I like your take on this. I agree that many (but not all) habits are either identity reinforcement or procrastination. Thanks for the guidance on how to see them clearly.