What do you think?
Rate this book
The Ritual Effect: From Habit to Ritual, Harness the Surprising Power of Everyday Actions
In the bestselling tradition of Charles Duhigg’s The Power of Habit and Angela Duckworth’s Grit, a renowned social psychologist demonstrates the power of small acts—and how a subtle turning of habits into rituals can add purpose and pleasure to life.
Our lives are filled with repetitive tasks meant to boost productivity—what we come to know as habits. Over time, these habits (for example, brushing your teeth or putting on your right sock first) are done on autopilot. But when a layer of mindfulness accompanies a habit—when we focus on the precise way an act is performed—a ritual has been created. Now, an everyday act goes from black-and-white to technicolor. And as author Michael Norton explains here, it’s these rituals that make life worth living.
Think of the way you savor a certain beverage, the care you take with a certain outfit that only gets worn on special occasions, the unique way that your family gathers around the table at the holidays, or the secret language you enjoy with your significant other. To some, these behaviors may seem quirky, but because rituals matter so deeply to us on a personal level, they saturate our lives with purpose and meaning. Rituals can heal a community experiencing a great loss, guide a speaker through a difficult presentation, drive a stadium of sports fans to ecstasy, inspire courage in soldiers going into combat, and help us rise to challenges and realize opportunities. Among those who have made effective use of rituals are Maya Angelou, Keith Richards, Barack Obama, and Steve Jobs. Drawing on decades of original research, author Michal Norton reveals that shifting from a “habitual” mindset to a “ritual” mindset can both enhance performance and add meaning to your life.
Compelling, inspiring, and practical, The Ritual Effect takes us on a fascinating tour of the intention-filled acts that drive human behavior and shows us how to create simple rituals to imbue everyday life with a sense of purpose and joy.
Our lives are filled with repetitive tasks meant to boost productivity—what we come to know as habits. Over time, these habits (for example, brushing your teeth or putting on your right sock first) are done on autopilot. But when a layer of mindfulness accompanies a habit—when we focus on the precise way an act is performed—a ritual has been created. Now, an everyday act goes from black-and-white to technicolor. And as author Michael Norton explains here, it’s these rituals that make life worth living.
Think of the way you savor a certain beverage, the care you take with a certain outfit that only gets worn on special occasions, the unique way that your family gathers around the table at the holidays, or the secret language you enjoy with your significant other. To some, these behaviors may seem quirky, but because rituals matter so deeply to us on a personal level, they saturate our lives with purpose and meaning. Rituals can heal a community experiencing a great loss, guide a speaker through a difficult presentation, drive a stadium of sports fans to ecstasy, inspire courage in soldiers going into combat, and help us rise to challenges and realize opportunities. Among those who have made effective use of rituals are Maya Angelou, Keith Richards, Barack Obama, and Steve Jobs. Drawing on decades of original research, author Michal Norton reveals that shifting from a “habitual” mindset to a “ritual” mindset can both enhance performance and add meaning to your life.
Compelling, inspiring, and practical, The Ritual Effect takes us on a fascinating tour of the intention-filled acts that drive human behavior and shows us how to create simple rituals to imbue everyday life with a sense of purpose and joy.
288 pages, Hardcover
First published April 9, 2024
About the author
Michael Norton
9 books57 followersMichael Norton is an associate professor of marketing at Harvard Business School. His research has twice been featured in the New York Times Magazine Year in Ideas issue. In 2012, he was selected for Wired magazine’s Smart List as one of “50 People Who Will Change the World.”
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
May 9, 2024
Thank you, @dartfroggco, for the gifted book. I also purchased the audio from @librofm for a read/listen experience.
About the book: “In the bestselling tradition of Charles Duhigg’s The Power of Habit and Angela Duckworth’s Grit, a renowned social psychologist demonstrates the power of small acts—and how a subtle turning of habits into rituals can add purpose and pleasure to life.”
The audio is narrated by the author, and I enjoyed his narration. I’m especially drawn to positive psychological constructs, and the formation of rituals and how they are conveyed within this book definitely fits. It’s basically adding mindfulness (meaning and purpose) to daily habits. If you listen for them, there are some key small changes that could, if implemented, could add up to bigger transformations, and for those aspects I was most grateful.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
About the book: “In the bestselling tradition of Charles Duhigg’s The Power of Habit and Angela Duckworth’s Grit, a renowned social psychologist demonstrates the power of small acts—and how a subtle turning of habits into rituals can add purpose and pleasure to life.”
The audio is narrated by the author, and I enjoyed his narration. I’m especially drawn to positive psychological constructs, and the formation of rituals and how they are conveyed within this book definitely fits. It’s basically adding mindfulness (meaning and purpose) to daily habits. If you listen for them, there are some key small changes that could, if implemented, could add up to bigger transformations, and for those aspects I was most grateful.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
April 16, 2024
This book reminded me of Atomic Habbits but showed how religion can be so bad when mixed with ritual and makes people feel like they need to force their beliefs on others. Totally nailed how religion has been working the past thousand of years. This is a 4 out of 10 for me, just below the average book. Was a fast quick read so it's not too bad if you have spare time in your reading.
January 13, 2024
*well-written and informative
*easy to read and educational
*defines how rituals play a healthy role in human behavior
*highly recommend
*easy to read and educational
*defines how rituals play a healthy role in human behavior
*highly recommend
March 28, 2024
I won this book in a GoodReads giveaway, all opinions are my own.
This was one of the most thought provoking books I've read this year. Each chapter had a different topic or part of life in which we use rituals in ways you might not have thought of. Before reading this book, I didn't think I had any rituals in my everyday life. After reading this book, every mundane process or task has become more of a ritual. I have begun to realize the things I do every day in very specific steps and how they make me feel. This has made me more intentional in the things that I do or don't do. Overall, this book was great at prompting more thought about things that may have been automatic or dreaded and made them more meaningful.
This was one of the most thought provoking books I've read this year. Each chapter had a different topic or part of life in which we use rituals in ways you might not have thought of. Before reading this book, I didn't think I had any rituals in my everyday life. After reading this book, every mundane process or task has become more of a ritual. I have begun to realize the things I do every day in very specific steps and how they make me feel. This has made me more intentional in the things that I do or don't do. Overall, this book was great at prompting more thought about things that may have been automatic or dreaded and made them more meaningful.
April 14, 2024
Very interesting. I expected something more along the lines of teaching healthy, sustainable rituals, but still a good book.
April 11, 2024
I was initially drawn to the book by its intriguing theme and the numerous glowing endorsements it received. However, despite a promising start, the content eventually shifts towards generic advice on using rituals for workplace success, a common theme in contemporary non-fiction.
The book does include a range of engaging anecdotes, from B.F. Skinner’s experiments to the famous marshmallow test, yet it falls short of providing actionable insights or introducing novel concepts. Ultimately, I was left seeking more practical guidance and substantive takeaways.
The book does include a range of engaging anecdotes, from B.F. Skinner’s experiments to the famous marshmallow test, yet it falls short of providing actionable insights or introducing novel concepts. Ultimately, I was left seeking more practical guidance and substantive takeaways.
December 26, 2023
Another free ARC from @scribnerbooks in exchange for a free review. I LOVED this book. Reminded me a lot of “Atomic Habits” in the best of ways. I would love to relisten to this book as an audiobook. I am sure it would be incredible. This novel really forces its readers to acknowledge and take joy in all our little rituals. A positive and excellent book.
April 25, 2024
I try to read a book like this so I can transfer, at least in part, something into my everyday life whether personal or professional. I thought this book could help me on both levels. It did not.
It is heavy on anecdotal stories that try to illustrate a point. Some of them were very interesting and others not so much. Anecdotes are fine to help the reader grasp a concept or meaning of a story but an entire book of them leaves the reader wondering where the book is going. In my opinion, in circles. I was hoping for something more substantive that would direct me on how to improve my work and home life but it was not there.
The book is “fine” but little else. Don’t expect it to significantly change anything because it won’t (I know, the reader is the only one who can make those changes but everyone would like some help every now and then). More of a read when nothing else is around. Thankfully it is a rather short book and an easy read. If I was feeling more generous I would give it three stars but in the end there was nothing else to put it over the top for another star.
It is heavy on anecdotal stories that try to illustrate a point. Some of them were very interesting and others not so much. Anecdotes are fine to help the reader grasp a concept or meaning of a story but an entire book of them leaves the reader wondering where the book is going. In my opinion, in circles. I was hoping for something more substantive that would direct me on how to improve my work and home life but it was not there.
The book is “fine” but little else. Don’t expect it to significantly change anything because it won’t (I know, the reader is the only one who can make those changes but everyone would like some help every now and then). More of a read when nothing else is around. Thankfully it is a rather short book and an easy read. If I was feeling more generous I would give it three stars but in the end there was nothing else to put it over the top for another star.
May 1, 2024
More like 2 1/2 stars.
This book is “idiosyncratic.” (If you know, you know.) I really wanted to enjoy it more than I did. However, I found myself wishing for it to be over sooner than later.
A synopsis: Ritual is about perspective, attitude, and consistency. There… you’ve read the book without digesting every single observational study listed in the pages.
PS, put together your own IKEA furniture; you’ll value it more.
This book is “idiosyncratic.” (If you know, you know.) I really wanted to enjoy it more than I did. However, I found myself wishing for it to be over sooner than later.
A synopsis: Ritual is about perspective, attitude, and consistency. There… you’ve read the book without digesting every single observational study listed in the pages.
PS, put together your own IKEA furniture; you’ll value it more.
May 8, 2024
Enjoyed this, but didn't find it revolutionary. My favorite pieces where on rituals surrounding romantic relationships and those surrounding grief. Though I liked hearing about all of this supported by academic fact, I couldn't really shake the feeling that it seemed like common sense for any wll-adjusted emotionally mature individual.
One thing I did think was cool: the trick to tell what's a "ritual" for you and what is a "routine." I.e., imagine doing your morning "routine" backwards. If that bothers you without knowing why, it's an important ritual! If it doesn't affect you, it's a routine.
One thing I did think was cool: the trick to tell what's a "ritual" for you and what is a "routine." I.e., imagine doing your morning "routine" backwards. If that bothers you without knowing why, it's an important ritual! If it doesn't affect you, it's a routine.
February 29, 2024
◇ Synopsis
In our daily lives, we engage in repetitive tasks, forming habits that keep us on track. These routines, like brushing teeth or putting on a specific sock first, become automatic over time. Yet, when we approach these actions with mindfulness, they transform into rituals, adding depth and meaning to our lives. Shifting from a habitual to a ritual mindset can infuse ordinary acts with vibrancy and significance. Whether it's savoring a favorite beverage, dressing meticulously for special occasions, or sharing traditions with loved ones, rituals hold personal importance, enriching our existence. Drawing on extensive research, "The Ritual Effect" explores how rituals contribute to healing communities, navigating life's transitions, fueling collective enthusiasm in sports arenas, and aiding personal growth. This insightful book underscores the power of intention in human behavior, highlighting the satisfaction and joy derived from purposeful actions.
◇ Thoughts
I found this book to be among the more insightful self-help reads I've encountered lately. The author demonstrates a strong grasp of the subject matter and presents it in a logical sequence. While the pacing can be a bit monotonous at times, self-help books are typically best absorbed in small doses, whereas I read this one straight through. The concept and accompanying examples effectively illustrate how our daily rituals can contribute to personal growth and happiness. Although I would have appreciated more anecdotes and examples, the ones included sufficiently conveyed the key points.
In our daily lives, we engage in repetitive tasks, forming habits that keep us on track. These routines, like brushing teeth or putting on a specific sock first, become automatic over time. Yet, when we approach these actions with mindfulness, they transform into rituals, adding depth and meaning to our lives. Shifting from a habitual to a ritual mindset can infuse ordinary acts with vibrancy and significance. Whether it's savoring a favorite beverage, dressing meticulously for special occasions, or sharing traditions with loved ones, rituals hold personal importance, enriching our existence. Drawing on extensive research, "The Ritual Effect" explores how rituals contribute to healing communities, navigating life's transitions, fueling collective enthusiasm in sports arenas, and aiding personal growth. This insightful book underscores the power of intention in human behavior, highlighting the satisfaction and joy derived from purposeful actions.
◇ Thoughts
I found this book to be among the more insightful self-help reads I've encountered lately. The author demonstrates a strong grasp of the subject matter and presents it in a logical sequence. While the pacing can be a bit monotonous at times, self-help books are typically best absorbed in small doses, whereas I read this one straight through. The concept and accompanying examples effectively illustrate how our daily rituals can contribute to personal growth and happiness. Although I would have appreciated more anecdotes and examples, the ones included sufficiently conveyed the key points.
March 28, 2024
"The Ritual Effect" by Michael Norton has been truly eye-opening. Norton delves deep into the seemingly mundane aspects of our daily lives, revealing how our habits can actually be transformed into powerful rituals. What struck me the most was how he elucidated that these rituals aren't just random routines; they're the threads that weave purpose and meaning into our existence. From the way we enjoy our morning cup of coffee to the traditions we uphold with our loved ones, every ritual holds a significance that often goes unnoticed. Norton's exploration of the science behind these rituals and their impact on our well-being was both compelling and enlightening.
As a fan of self-help literature, I thoroughly enjoyed diving into this book, finding its insights both enlightening and practical. Reading this book was like having a light bulb moment after light bulb moment. Norton's emphasis on mindfulness and intentionality resonated deeply with me, prompting a reevaluation of my own daily rituals. Plus, Norton's insights are backed by solid research, but he presents them in such a relatable way that you can't help but nod along in agreement. Overall, if you're looking for a thought-provoking read that challenges you to find joy in the ordinary, "The Ritual Effect" is definitely worth a spot on your shelf.
Thank You Netgalley for my advanced copy in exchange for my honest review!
As a fan of self-help literature, I thoroughly enjoyed diving into this book, finding its insights both enlightening and practical. Reading this book was like having a light bulb moment after light bulb moment. Norton's emphasis on mindfulness and intentionality resonated deeply with me, prompting a reevaluation of my own daily rituals. Plus, Norton's insights are backed by solid research, but he presents them in such a relatable way that you can't help but nod along in agreement. Overall, if you're looking for a thought-provoking read that challenges you to find joy in the ordinary, "The Ritual Effect" is definitely worth a spot on your shelf.
Thank You Netgalley for my advanced copy in exchange for my honest review!
April 10, 2024
Personally speaking, this has been a tough year for me. I lost my dad, have struggled with some aspects of my work, and I’ve grappled with how to be a better dad and husband. I’ve found the ideas shared in this book to be comforting and extremely helpful, and I think they’re helping me be a better person. From how to mourn better, to how to find meaning at work, to how to stay in sync in our relationships, I find myself doing things differently, in little ways, but I feel like they’re making a big difference. I think you’ll be glad you read this book — and I’m sure you’ll enjoy the journey.
For example, did you know that Keith Richards of The Rolling Stones eats a slice of Shepherds Pie just before he steps on stage to perform? Every time. And it always has the be the first slice…. It seems strange, but by unpacking this, and other seemingly-random things that people of all stripes have done throughout the centuries to create order from chaos, to spark joy, or to claim some measure of control in their lives, this book will help you do the same, and it turns out, that can make a big difference.
I should also share that although this is a carefully-researched behavioral science book, it has a soul. The author’s warmth and humor shine through, making this a joy to read. The book is authentic, fascinating, and downright helpful. I highly recommend it.
For example, did you know that Keith Richards of The Rolling Stones eats a slice of Shepherds Pie just before he steps on stage to perform? Every time. And it always has the be the first slice…. It seems strange, but by unpacking this, and other seemingly-random things that people of all stripes have done throughout the centuries to create order from chaos, to spark joy, or to claim some measure of control in their lives, this book will help you do the same, and it turns out, that can make a big difference.
I should also share that although this is a carefully-researched behavioral science book, it has a soul. The author’s warmth and humor shine through, making this a joy to read. The book is authentic, fascinating, and downright helpful. I highly recommend it.
March 5, 2024
A very educational, informative, and resourceful read! All about shifting from a Habits to Rituals mindset and how it helps to imbue our lives with purpose and more meaning. Creating satisfaction/enjoyment through intentional acts. Creating your ritual signature: through a more personal experience, creating a sense of ownership, expressing our unique self. (DIY rituals). explains operant conditioning; ritual as a response to uncertainty and stress (eg; sign of the cross during prayer and when coping with stressful situations) tons of case studies and references. Includes examples/stories of athletes, celebrities, groups, and clubs. The definition of a ritual outside of the traditional religious views as well as generational traditions. Behavior Science; How any set of behaviors can become a ritual. Eg; New parents, Peleton, as a new leader in the fitness industry,book clubs with journals and book logs, reviews, and reading challenges.
I really enjoyed this book. Highly recommend.
Thank You Netgalley for my advanced copy in exchange for my honest review!
I really enjoyed this book. Highly recommend.
Thank You Netgalley for my advanced copy in exchange for my honest review!
May 4, 2024
I'm conflicted about reviewing self-help books. The idea behind the ritual effect and how he defines rituals versus habits? Five stars. Six, even. It was that much of a mind-shake that I bought the book. And I read the book. It elucidated the original point but left me with no greater insight than when I began.
So do you rank the book on the initial idea? The substance behind it? And if you rank this book poorly even though it is built around a gorgeous idea, how is that fair?
No idea. "Making Self-Help Books Work Beyond The Original Idea" would be a book I'd enjoy reading. Before I take this thought experiment too far down the road, I'll circle back: if you're amazed by the ritual effect concept, good. Me too. But you won't get any clearer understanding of it by buying this book.
So do you rank the book on the initial idea? The substance behind it? And if you rank this book poorly even though it is built around a gorgeous idea, how is that fair?
No idea. "Making Self-Help Books Work Beyond The Original Idea" would be a book I'd enjoy reading. Before I take this thought experiment too far down the road, I'll circle back: if you're amazed by the ritual effect concept, good. Me too. But you won't get any clearer understanding of it by buying this book.
May 1, 2024
Audio Review: The author narrated and did a really nice job. His pacing and conversational style were great.
Review: I enjoyed the author's research about rituals and the roles they play at an individual, a family, a community, and a societal level. I especially enjoyed the examples. My favorite chapter was the one focused on family and rituals. It has me thinking about my family and our rituals and if I want to be intentional about the ones we have or maybe promoting some new ones. It was a really informative book about all the ays we create rituals.
Thanks to the publisher for sharing a copy with me. All opinions are my own.
Review: I enjoyed the author's research about rituals and the roles they play at an individual, a family, a community, and a societal level. I especially enjoyed the examples. My favorite chapter was the one focused on family and rituals. It has me thinking about my family and our rituals and if I want to be intentional about the ones we have or maybe promoting some new ones. It was a really informative book about all the ays we create rituals.
Thanks to the publisher for sharing a copy with me. All opinions are my own.
April 10, 2024
"The Ritual Effect" by Michael Norton is a wonderful book full of fascinating observations, moving personal stories, and solid science on how small rituals can help us perform better, build stronger relationships, and, more broadly, live a happier life. As a dad to three boys, this book changed how we do things at home, turning routine snack time into "Waffle Wednesdays" - a new family ritual that brings us closer. Highly recommend it for practical ways to make everyday life richer and more interesting.
April 17, 2024
We all know about the power of habits (™ Charles Duhigg); this book takes that a step further by exploring how you can turn habits into rituals by imbuing them with meaning. The narrative distinguishes between habits and rituals in the first chapter, but I found myself not really internalizing that part - maybe because I’m not big on mindfulness and meditation. But this was a good reminder to myself to think about the habits I’m creating and how I can make them part of my identity and who I am instead of just what I do. A bit repetitive, as are many books of this type, but still good.
May 10, 2024
I had an intuition about rituals because despite me being a non-religious non-spiritual non-superstitious non-super-natural-believer I still like rituals in how it makes me bond with the people that I perform the rituals with. Because of that nature, I'm happy to start and discard rituals very quickly, which sometimes puzzle people. It was good to see this reflected in the book.
It made me wonder about what rituals we have at work and which ones we can add to feel closer, form a stronger team.
It made me wonder about what rituals we have at work and which ones we can add to feel closer, form a stronger team.
May 12, 2024
I really enjoyed The Ritual Effect, the writing and narration are warm and engaging, and the author's ideas are thought provoking, leading me to a lot of reflection on the role that ritual plays in my life and in all of our lives. Not just formal rituals like church or holidays, but the little day to day rituals that add richness and meaning to our lives and our relationships.
I continue to struggle with audio books, they just aren't a great fit for me. But they're so convenient, and I like the idea of them so much, that I keep trying. This was a good one.
I continue to struggle with audio books, they just aren't a great fit for me. But they're so convenient, and I like the idea of them so much, that I keep trying. This was a good one.
April 2, 2024
I thought this was very interesting. Some sections (particularly the earlier ones) I think were stronger than others, but overall enjoyable. There were a ton of examples centered around Boston and the New England are, which I initially enjoyed being from there, but I do wish there was slight more diversity across the examples, particularly in the earlier chapters.
Thanks NetGalley for the ARC!
Thanks NetGalley for the ARC!
April 6, 2024
This was such an interesting book! I really enjoyed how it went through the differences of a ritual versus a habit and how rituals can add meaning to all parts of our lives - from work to personal relationships. It was written in an easy to understand way with ample examples throughout. I’d definitely recommend this as a personal growth book! Thank you to NetGalley & Scribner for the ARC!
April 11, 2024
This book is an absolute gem, full of insights and actionable advice to help people develop everyday rituals! I enjoyed reading it and especially liked the different ideas highlighting how rituals can help us feel more connected to those we love. I highly recommend this book to anyone seeking to identify everyday rituals in their lives and find meaning in mundane activities.
April 19, 2024
A fluff piece; Its hard to imagine a less indepth exploration of ritual. He doesn't even bother to exert the mental effort to deconstruct what a ritual is, or to bring a useful categorisation to them. Or to share a formula for how to build one. And he's a Harvard professor! Feather light entertainment.
May 6, 2024
Nope on this one. Dude just REALLY want you to know he teaches at Harvard Business School which honestly just makes him seem pretty out of touch. This book meanders all over the place and what could be a very interesting cultural and psychological deep dive into ritual/routine/habit/quirk becomes a pop book that seems like a good idea to buy at an airport after a 7:00 a.m. bloody mary.
May 10, 2024
We have all read the "routine, to habit" advice books, but this goes a step beyond to describe Rituals. Our author, Michael Norton has credentials & drops lots of data about studies and entertains with many example antidotes. There were many useful strategies along the way. My favorites were the acts of savoring and mindfulness. Enjoy.
May 12, 2024
OMG - he's pretty funny - people who brush their teeth in the shower "minty feet"
The sports stuff didn't surprise me or interest me; however, lots of still applied to regular people.
This book makes me want to create some new rituals!
Also, if you're struggling with the letting go of work or starting work (esp from home) maybe a few rituals would help - Japanese slippers anyone?
The sports stuff didn't surprise me or interest me; however, lots of still applied to regular people.
This book makes me want to create some new rituals!
Also, if you're struggling with the letting go of work or starting work (esp from home) maybe a few rituals would help - Japanese slippers anyone?
April 9, 2024
I love this book. It is fun and easy to read, yet is deeply insightful and moving. Most importantly, it helped me be more mindful and derive meaning from many of life's simple routines. What a delight!
April 24, 2024
This is a lovely overview of ritual in its breadth, but I do think it sacrifices depth. For a more comprehensive look at ritual, I would read Priya Parker's "The Art of Gathering," or even Erica Kessler's "Ritual Revolution."
April 29, 2024
I appreciate and savor my rituals, so I definitely found this interesting. It did become a bit repetitive and I didn’t think there was much specifically shared about “harnessing the surprising power of everyday actions” as the title suggested.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews