When I first read James Clear’s Atomic Habits, I was intrigued by the idea of building small, manageable habits that could improve life over time. Instead of diving into productivity-related habits, I decided to start with something simple and practical: always wearing a helmet and shoes whenever I ride my motorbike, no matter how short the trip.
Why I Chose This Micro Habit
The inspiration for this habit came after I watched an interview with actor and motorsport enthusiast Ajith Kumar. He spoke about the importance of safety gear for riders, and it got me thinking. My takeaway from his message was that while many people invest a lot in their bikes, they often overlook spending on quality safety gear. In my view, it makes sense to dedicate a good portion of your bike budget-maybe even 20-30%-to proper safety equipment.
This made me realize how often we overlook safety, especially on short rides to nearby places like the gym or the store. I decided to build a small habit that would help me stay safe consistently.
Building the Habit
I kept the rule simple:
No helmet and shoes, no riding.
At first, it felt a bit inconvenient, but after a few weeks, it became a natural part of my routine.
What I Noticed
- Peace of Mind: I feel more secure knowing I’m protected, even on quick trips.
- Consistency: This small habit has made it easier to stick to other positive routines.
Why Safety Gear Matters
Most two-wheeler accidents happen close to home during short rides. According to the World Health Organization, helmets reduce the risk of head injury by 69% and death by 42%. Wearing proper shoes also helps protect your feet from injuries.
Investing in Safety Gear
Based on what I learned, it’s practical to invest a significant portion of your bike budget in safety gear. A good helmet, sturdy shoes, gloves, and protective clothing are sensible ways to prioritize your safety.
Tips to Start Your Own Micro Habit
- Keep it Simple: Choose a habit that’s easy to do every day.
- Use a Trigger: For me, it’s putting on my helmet and shoes before touching the bike.
- Be Consistent: Try not to skip, even for short rides.
- Recognize Progress: Acknowledge your consistency, no matter how small.
Final Thoughts
This micro habit hasn’t drastically changed my life, but it has made me more mindful about safety. If you ride a bike, consider adopting this simple habit. It’s a small step that can make a difference in staying protected.
Disclaimer: This blog post was created with the assistance of AI. While the content reflects my personal experiences and insights, the AI was used to enhance the writing process and ensure clarity.
