frameworkintermediatemid level

The Three Layers of Behavior Change

Behavior change operates at three levels: outcomes (what you get), processes (what you do), and identity (what you believe).

In Depth

Clear visualizes this as three concentric circles with identity at the core, processes in the middle, and outcomes on the outside. Most people work outside-in, starting with desired outcomes. Effective change works inside-out, starting with identity. The question shifts from 'What do I want to achieve?' to 'Who do I wish to become?' This reframing changes the psychology of behavior change from outcome pursuit to identity construction.

Example

Outcome level: 'I want to lose 30 pounds.' Process level: 'I'll follow this diet and exercise plan.' Identity level: 'I'm becoming the type of person who takes care of their body.' The identity-level approach is most sustainable because behavior flows from who you are.

Common Misconception

You must work through all three layers sequentially, when actually you can enter at any layer—the key is that identity-level changes tend to be most sustainable.

Source

Atomic Habits

James Clear

behavior changeidentitypsychologyself-concept

Related Concepts

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Test Your Understanding

active recallmedium

In Clear's three concentric circles of behavior change, which layer is at the core?

applicationhard

Reframe this outcome-level goal using identity-level thinking: 'I want to save $10,000 this year.'