Follow self-made rules to remove daily debate

Every morning, before your coffee even brews, you glance at a small card taped to your laptop: “I write 300 words before breakfast.” There’s no debate or negotiation. Your mind stops asking, “Should I?” because the rule has already decided. You sit, open your document, and write. Around you, your neighborhood hums awake—the steam of a teapot, distant car engines. There’s no time for excuses.

A few paragraphs in, you glance at the tracker on your phone and see it’s day ten in a row. Your pulse quickens with a subtle dose of pride. You close your eyes and let yourself feel that small high—your brain rewards consistency. You write on, carrying momentum into your full morning.

This is the power of a manifesto rule: it removes choice when you’re vulnerable. Daniel Kahneman calls this System 1 vs. System 2: the automatic mind needs clear triggers. By crafting simple black-and-white rules, you enlist your fast-thinking mind to act without hesitation. No extra self-discipline required.

When you turn each rule into a visible, unbreakable promise, days blend into productive months. You’ll find that the habit takes on a life of its own. Soon enough, you stop needing reminders—your identity transforms: you become the person who finishes what they start.

Tell yourself: “I do 15 minutes of exercise before lunch—always.” Put that rule on a sticky note by your keyboard so it’s the first thing you see. Then set a timer, stretch your legs, and follow through. After you finish, check off today’s date on your calendar. Watching your streak grow gives you a quick boost of pride and makes tomorrow’s decision effortless. Try it tomorrow morning.