10 Habits To Unlock a Better Life

Ten Habits Worth Adopting Earlier

The presenter shares ten habits he wishes he had adopted sooner, drawing mostly on personal experience.

1. Eat more thoughtfully. He says he felt better after paying attention to getting a reasonable balance of fats, carbohydrates, and protein. He notes that he isn’t qualified to prescribe a diet.

2. Start with a positive attitude. Instead of immediately focusing on flaws, try assuming you might enjoy something. Looking past small imperfections can help you appreciate more experiences.

3. Be on time. Treat other people’s time and commitments seriously. He recounts losing a promising acting opportunity after arriving an hour late to a table read.

4. Handle small tasks promptly. Pay the ticket, send the payment, or answer the message rather than letting minor tasks grow into bigger problems. Writing tasks down, using checklists, or trying the Pomodoro technique may help.

5. Explore old cars. A playful, personal suggestion: look into buying older, base-model European cars, which he says have become more expensive over time.

6. Keep yourself and your surroundings clean. Maintaining personal hygiene and keeping your clothes, car, and home clean can support confidence and help you feel more put together. A shower may also help when you’re feeling off.

7. Read books. Reading can be enjoyable and accessible in many settings. The presenter says it can support memory, vocabulary, cognitive engagement, and stress reduction.

8. Learn how things work. Build basic knowledge of everyday topics and practical skills—from your car, body, and finances to sewing on a button or wiring a ceiling fan. Curiosity can also help you understand coworkers and do your job better.

9. Move every day. Running, walking, or doing another activity at any pace can help you feel better and support overall health. Focus on your own progress rather than comparing yourself with others, and start small if needed.

10. Get comfortable with discomfort. Don’t always try to escape unpleasant feelings through quick fixes or impulsive behaviors. Seek healthy ways to feel better, such as walking or running, but recognize that sometimes a difficult mood has to pass on its own. Focus on long-term well-being rather than immediate relief.

Presenter/source: James Pumphrey, host of Speeed, speaking from personal experience. Sponsor mentioned: Incogni.