Atomic Habits by James Clear

Welcome to our upcoming leadership class, scheduled for May to June 2004. In this series, we will embark on an enlightening journey through "Atomic Habits" by James Clear. Over the course of eight sessions, we'll dissect this powerful book, delving into its principles and how they can be applied to spiritual leadership, particularly in the context of fellowship group leaders and ministry leaders.

"Atomic Habits" offers a unique perspective on the formation and improvement of habits, emphasizing small, incremental changes for significant long-term benefits. This approach is particularly relevant to spiritual leadership, as it aligns with Jesus' methodology of working closely with individuals, focusing on their personal development and equipping them with skills essential for ministry and discipleship. The principles outlined in this book can provide valuable insights into how to effectively develop and nurture disciples, mirroring Jesus' focus on deep, individual mentorship rather than broad, mass outreach.

Our weekly meetings will revolve around thoughtful discussions, exploring how the concepts from "Atomic Habits" can enhance our understanding of Jesus' teachings and approach. The discussions will include:

  • Reflection: Sharing key takeaways from our previous study on Jesus' emphasis on individual mentorship over mass outreach.

  • Personal Application: Exploring how we are currently implementing the principle of personal mentorship in our own lives and ministries.

  • Challenges: Identifying and discussing the challenges faced in focusing on individual mentorship as Jesus did.

  • Action Steps: Planning and committing to concrete steps to enhance our mentorship approach.

  • Progress Evaluation: Reflecting on our growth and changes based on previous commitments in personal mentorship.

  • Growth and Encouragement: Sharing areas of mentorship and personal outreach where we have witnessed the most growth.

  • Prayer and Aspirations: Sharing our prayers and aspirations related to mentorship, seeking guidance on how to see God's profound movement in our efforts.

This class is set to be a transformative experience, combining the wisdom of "Atomic Habits" with the timeless teachings of Jesus to enrich our leadership and mentorship skills

  • Week 1: Understanding the Basics (Chapters 1-3)

    Chapter 1: The Surprising Power of Atomic Habits:** Exploring the impact of small, consistent changes.

    Chapter 2: How Your Habits Shape Your Identity (and Vice Versa):** Delving into the interconnectedness of habits and self-perception.

    Chapter 3: How to Build Better Habits in 4 Simple Steps:** Introducing a practical framework for habit formation.

  • Week 2: The 1st Law - Make It Obvious (Chapters 4-5)

    Chapter 4: The Man Who Didn’t Look Right:** A case study on the significance of awareness in habit change.

    Chapter 5: The Best Way to Start a New Habit:** Strategies for initiating effective and lasting habits.

  • Week 3: Continued - The 1st Law (Chapters 6-7)

    Chapter 6: Motivation is Overrated; Environment Often Matters More:** Discussing how our surroundings influence habit formation.

    Chapter 7: The Secret to Self-Control:** Insights into mastering self-discipline.

  • Week 4: The 2nd Law - Make It Attractive (Chapters 8-9)

    Chapter 8: How to Make a Habit Irresistible:** Techniques for enhancing the appeal of positive habits.

    Chapter 9: The Role of Family and Friends in Shaping Your Habits:** Examining social influences on habit development.

  • Week 5: Continued - The 2nd Law (Chapter 10)

    Chapter 10: How to Find and Fix the Causes of Your Bad Habits:** Identifying and addressing the root causes of unhelpful habits.

  • Week 6: The 3rd Law - Make It Easy (Chapters 11-13)

    Chapter 11: Walk Slowly, but Never Backward:** Focusing on steady, forward progress.

    Chapter 12: The Law of Least Effort:** Understanding our natural inclination towards ease.

    Chapter 13: How to Stop Procrastinating by Using the Two-Minute Rule:** A simple technique to overcome procrastination.

  • Week 7: The 4th Law - Make It Satisfying and Advanced Tactics (Chapters 14-17)

    Chapter 14: How to Make Good Habits Inevitable and Bad Habits Impossible:** Solidifying positive habits and eliminating negative ones.

    Chapter 15: The Cardinal Rule of Behaviour Change:** The key principle in successful habit change.

    Chapter 16: How to Stick with Good Habits Every Day:** Daily practices for habit maintenance.

    Chapter 17: How an Accountability Partner Can Change Everything:** The power of social support in habit formation.

  • Week 8: Advanced Tactics and Conclusion (Chapters 18-20)

    Chapter 18: The Truth About Talent (When Genes Matter and When They Don’t): Exploring the role of genetics in habit formation and success.

    Chapter 19: The Goldilocks Rule: How to Stay Motivated in Life and Work: Finding the balance in challenges to maintain motivation.

    Chapter 20: The Downside of Creating Good Habits: Considering the potential drawbacks in habit formation.

    Conclusion: The Secret to Results That Last:** Wrapping up with essential strategies for lasting change and personal growth.

Key questions for discussions.

Reflection and Key Takeaways

Personal Application: How are you implementing the principles from this book in your own life and ministry?

Challenges: Where did you feel most challenged by the content of this book?

Growth: In what areas do you believe this book has helped, or can help, you grow?

Prayer and Aspirations: What are you praying for in relation to this subject, and where would you like to see God profoundly move in your ministry efforts?