But the cues that spark our habits become so common that they are essentially invisible.

Here’s how to notice them.

Pointing-and-Calling is so effective because it raises the level of awareness from a nonconscious habit to a more conscious level.

Real life example:

The Japanese railway system is regarded as one of the best in the world.

If you ever find yourself riding a train in Tokyo, you’ll notice that the conductors have a peculiar habit. As each operator runs the train, they proceed through a ritual of pointing different objects and calling out commands. […] Before each train departs, staff members will point along the edge of the platform and declare “All clear!” Every detail is identified, pointed at, and named aloud.

In your life:

Use the Pointing-and-Calling system to make a list of your current habits. Then, ask yourself “Is this a habit with a positive net outcome, one with negative net outcomes, or a neutral one. Next to each habit write “+” if positive, “-” if negative and “=” if it’s a neutral habit.

This will be your Habit Scorecard.

-Atomic Habits, p.63