Don't break the chain explained
The visible chain becomes its own motivation. Missing a day feels like losing something, which is a useful nudge on low-energy days.
Keep the daily bar low enough that you can meet it on a bad day. If you do miss one, start again the next day rather than giving up.
Try it today
- Choose one daily habit with a small minimum, such as writing 100 words.
- Put a calendar or habit tracker where you will see it.
- Mark each day you do it and aim never to miss twice in a row.
Where it comes from
The method spread from a 2007 Lifehacker article by Brad Isaac, who said comedian Jerry Seinfeld gave him the advice. Seinfeld has since been reported as saying the idea was not his.
Frequently asked questions
- What is don't break the chain?
- Don't break the chain is a habit method where you mark a calendar with an X every day you do the habit, then focus on keeping the streak of Xs going.
- Where does don't break the chain come from?
- The method spread from a 2007 Lifehacker article by Brad Isaac, who said comedian Jerry Seinfeld gave him the advice. Seinfeld has since been reported as saying the idea was not his.
- How do I start with don't break the chain?
- Choose one daily habit with a small minimum, such as writing 100 words. Put a calendar or habit tracker where you will see it. Mark each day you do it and aim never to miss twice in a row.
- Which tools help with don't break the chain?
- Tools in our directory that help include Loop Habit Tracker, Habitica, Daylio, TickTick. Each has its own page with pricing, pros and cons.