The Habit Revolution: Simple steps to rewire your brain for powerful habit change

by Gina Cleo

‘If you’ve ever set a goal to start a new habit or break an old one and you fell off the wagon; if you’ve been in a cycle of yo-yo dieting, phone scrolling or alarm snoozing; or if you intend to do one thing but end up doing another, then you’re in the right place.’
 
Why do you find yourself repeating unwanted patterns? What do you do when exhaustion creeps in and you lose your willpower? The good news is it’s never too late to reprogram your habits. But how long does it really take and how can you make the changes stick?  

Leading habit researcher Dr Gina Cleo reveals revolutionary breakthroughs in behavioural science that will help you uncover how your brain works, and how to rewire it to make instant and lasting change in your life.  

Discover evidence-based techniques to break free from unwanted habits, master your motivation and navigate setbacks to achieve the lifestyle you’ve always wanted, no matter what stage of life you’re in.  

Packed with practical insights, inspiring stories and surprisingly simple activities to try today, The Habit Revolution is your guide to a life magnificently remastered through the incredible power of habits.

Genres: Nonfiction, Psychology, Audiobook, Self Help, Personal Development, Science

304 pages, Paperback

Published January 9, 2024

Reviews

[Krishel · Rating 2 out of 5]

I read this immediately after completing Atomic Habits and noticed a lot of overlap. I expected this book to contain more recent information regarding the latest developments in behavioral science. Some parts felt overexplained to the point of feeling repetitive.

While I personally didn't learn too much from this book, those who are new to the subject will benefit. The summary sections were nice to have and the activity sections were also a plus, distinguishing this book from other similar titles.

[Tiegan Lilley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Probably the best book I’ve read for goal setting. Her exercises at the end of each chapter are awesome and the research and science throughout the book was very interesting. She is a fantastic writer!

[Redd · Rating 3 out of 5]

Where do I even begin…

This book I would not recommend to an extreme novice who genuinely wants to change their habits. Not unless they are unwavering and super hardworking. For me, I’m glad that I didn’t read this book until after I read Atomic Habits. Why? Well for starters, this book is 100% jam packed with in depth technical jargon. And unless you’re fascinated by the research of this, then it’s a great read. I know I was fascinated by it, but the activities were just a bit much.

When I used to read a book, I used to feel like I had to do these activities and it would often deter me from reading it. Now though, I’m a little more equipped to handle coming across activities and skipping them; (Thanks to Atomic Habits). These activities wants you to think in depth about the habits you possess and the pathways that you think will be beneficial. It seems like a lot of theory work and not a lot of the actual ‘doing’ part. For me, I find that simple measures are best and if I think too hard about it, then I’m not going to feel motivated to keep going or ‘to do’ something. So as long as I have the basics, I am happy to plod along with the trial and error practice rather than writing.

Overall though, I’m giving this book three stars because while the activities are less than ideal and she seems to have overlooked the part where people do associate showering with dental care(as some people brush their teeth in the shower); I did like a few things.

For instance, the in-depth information. Which is why the book will remain on my shelf. I always love to understand the inner workings of certain things and this book smacks you with it. If you’re not prepared for it, it can feel overwhelming. I loved it, cause I love information. I also liked the extensive reference section. It’s full of up to date references and research studies.

In conclusion, great read, could have done without the in depth activities and maybe the author could have connected with people to see whether or not people actually associate dental care with showering? Just a thought.

[Elmi · Rating 1 out of 5]

Includes nothing original. Perhaps the narration would appeal to somebody but not me.

[Mert Şenyuva · Rating 3 out of 5]

Gina Cleo’s The Habit Revolution provides a well-structured and thorough approach to understanding how habits are formed, both from a psychological and cultural perspective. The book lays out the process clearly, making it easy to follow and apply. However, while it covers all the key elements of habit-building, there isn’t much in the way of groundbreaking insights for those already familiar with the topic.

One point that stood out to me was Cleo’s emphasis on the importance of motivation and self-care in habit formation. She highlights that if your “self-tank” is empty, it becomes nearly impossible to establish new habits. This perspective resonated with me because people often attempt to build habits during low points in their lives, only to struggle and ultimately abandon them. Cleo’s advice reinforces the idea that before focusing on habit formation, one must first address their fundamental well-being. I found this particularly useful, as it’s not something I’ve seen emphasized in many other sources.

Overall, The Habit Revolution is a well-organized and insightful read, especially for those new to the science of habits. While it may not introduce entirely new concepts, it offers valuable reminders and practical guidance for anyone looking to build lasting change.

[Haeli Draper · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED this book - I am a dietitian and work with people daily on essentially habit change. This book was full of practical examples and exercises. Not only helpful for patients but myself as well!

[Deb Chapman · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5. I’m not a self help book person but most of this 2024 book is easy to understand, seems evidence based and helpful. The cue-routine-reward cycle was useful and the motivation chapters good too

[Cassie Stevens · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was one of the most easiest to read self growth and development books I have had the pleasure of reading.

It was simple, funny, relatable and no dry content in sight!

I found the way it’s broken down and set out easy to read and absorb.

I have taken away so many valuable tips and ideas on how to apply this to my life and habits.

This is a must read.

[Lauren Sims · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great information; delivered poorly in audio form. More digestible in paperback, but lengthy chapter summaries keep it repetitious. The body of the work needs to be punchier, without passive voice. If you love tuning your habits, it’s worth a good read, and I will keep my copy to flip through for inspiration. Can’t wait to see Cleo’s future books despite it all.

[Anne Murray · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love me a January habit book. If you've read a habit book before, this won't be new content but it was a really good book. Given some of the recent processing I've been doing it was nice to have a big of a reset with this book and I've definitely got a few new takeaways.

[Jane (Avid reader) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lots of good ideas and exercises in here presented in a logical, easy to follow way. There is not a lot that is new though - so probably not that useful if you’ve read alot of other books on habits and goal setting.

[Nadi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this a really helpful book. The info was clear, with relatable case studies and I found myself easily following along. I've started creating micro habits and am making better, conscious choices. Would definitely recommend.

[Jayde Fuller · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the most accessible and actionable books to changing your habits for a positive lifestyle change. It makes so much sense, and I've already seen changes in my habits as a result of implementing Dr Gina's advice. Really empowering read!

[Geoffrey Wong · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good Australian perspective on habits. I read so many of these kind of books they are around the same ideas, as in nothing new under the sun.

But putting them into practice is the difficult bit, so reminders are good too.

[Noel Lim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic, very useful and practical book on habits. A book on habits that actually makes me optimistic that I can change my bad habits and develop fantastic new habits!

[Sam With Veggies · Rating 5 out of 5]

Considering this was a free audiobook, I found it was brilliant!! not as good as atomic habits, but simple, clear information. Loved it, worth the read :)

[Kate · Rating 4 out of 5]

I haven’t read Atomic Habits yet, so I enjoyed this book. Full of practical and simple actions to take. I listened on Audible and enjoyed this book a lot.

[H.G. Ahedi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it! A great read for all creatives!

[Jane Martin]

DNF at 52%.