When it comes to building habits that stick, two powerhouse books stand out in the self-improvement world: Atomic Habits by James Clear and Badass Habits by Jen Sincero. Both offer insightful, actionable strategies for personal transformation, but they do so with distinct styles and approaches. If you’re a business owner, entrepreneur, or coach looking to refine your habits for success, which book should you choose? The answer: it depends on what kind of reader you are and what motivates you.

Let’s dive into a comparison of these two books, examining their strengths, differences, and which audience each book serves best.

1. The Core Philosophy

Atomic Habits is rooted in behavioral science and psychology, offering a structured, research-backed framework for creating and maintaining habits. James Clear introduces the idea that small, incremental changes—what he calls “atomic habits”—compound over time to produce extraordinary results. His approach is methodical and practical, emphasizing identity-based habit formation (e.g., “I am a person who exercises” rather than “I need to work out”).

Badass Habits, on the other hand, is more about mindset and self-empowerment. Jen Sincero brings her signature no-nonsense, witty, and sometimes irreverent style to the topic of habit-building. While she acknowledges the importance of structure, her main focus is on the underlying beliefs and self-worth that drive habits. Her book is designed to help you shift your mindset, break free from limiting beliefs, and step into the most confident version of yourself.

2. Writing Style & Tone

If you appreciate a straightforward, science-backed approach, Atomic Habits is your go-to. Clear’s writing is logical, concise, and easy to follow, making his book an excellent choice for business professionals who enjoy structured, step-by-step guidance. His tone is calm and methodical, providing a roadmap that feels both achievable and precise.

Conversely, Badass Habits is bold, sassy, and infused with Sincero’s signature motivational coaching. She’s like the tough-love mentor who tells you to stop making excuses and own your power. If you prefer an energizing, humorous, and more spiritually aligned approach to habit transformation, you’ll find her book refreshing and inspiring.

3. Actionable Takeaways

Both books provide excellent practical takeaways, but they do so differently:

• Atomic Habits introduces the Four Laws of Behavior Change:
  1. Make it obvious
  2. Make it attractive
  3. Make it easy
  4. Make it satisfying

These principles serve as a systematic framework to create good habits and break bad ones. Clear also discusses the habit loop (cue, craving, response, reward) and how to design your environment for success.

• Badass Habits focuses on a 21-day process to help readers develop confidence and discipline in making habit shifts. Sincero places a strong emphasis on self-worth, boundaries, and affirmations, encouraging readers to take control of their inner dialogue and external circumstances.

4. Best Fit for Different Audiences

• Atomic Habits is perfect for business owners, entrepreneurs, and professionals who thrive on structure, logical strategies, and scientific principles. If you love systems and efficiency, Clear’s book will give you the tools to optimize your daily habits in a measurable way.
• Badass Habits is ideal for coaches, creatives, and anyone who struggles with self-doubt or mindset blocks. If you need a confidence boost and an engaging, kick-in-the-pants approach, Sincero’s energetic style will help you take action and own your greatness.

5. Which One Should You Read?

The real question isn’t which book is better, but which one is better for you right now. If you need a data-driven roadmap to habit formation, Atomic Habits is the way to go. If you need a motivational reset and an attitude shift, Badass Habits will help you unleash your inner power.

Ultimately, both books complement each other beautifully. Business professionals who read both will benefit from the structured, scientific approach of Clear’s work while also tapping into the motivational fire of Sincero’s coaching.

6. How a Business Coach Can Help You Achieve Your Goals

Reading about habits is one thing—applying them consistently is another. This is where a business coach comes in. A coach helps you:

• Identify the right habits that align with your business and personal goals.
• Hold you accountable to stay on track and maintain consistency.
• Overcome mindset blocks and self-doubt that prevent habit formation.
• Provide strategic guidance on how to structure your environment for success.
• Encourage adaptability, ensuring that your habits evolve as your business grows.

Whether you’re looking to optimize your workflow, increase productivity, or develop unshakable confidence, a business coach can help you implement the principles from Atomic Habits and Badass Habits in a way that’s tailored to your unique journey.

Final Thoughts

If you’re serious about leveling up in your business and life, consider reading both books. Start with Atomic Habits to build a solid foundation of habit-forming techniques, then follow up with Badass Habits for a mindset makeover. Together, these books provide a powerful one-two punch for achieving your goals and becoming the person you aspire to be.

So, are you ready to transform your habits and step into your next level of success? Pick the book that resonates with you most—or better yet, grab both and supercharge your growth!