Sarah Nicholl’s journey in writing Learning Habits was primarily fueled by her passion for behavioral science and its application in learning and development. Inspired by the works of notable authors like Wendy Wood, Nir Eyal, BJ Fogg, and James Clear, and particularly influenced by Daniel Kahneman’s Thinking Fast and Slow, Nicholl aimed to bridge the gap between academic research and practical application in corporate settings. She emphasizes the underutilization of behavioral science in adult education, noting the challenges professionals face in translating theory into practice.
The second driving force behind Nicholl’s book was the need to support her clients in embedding continuous learning within their organizations. She critiques the conventional approach of episodic learning interventions, which often fail to facilitate ongoing learning engagement at the organizational level. Learning Habits provides a framework for integrating learning into daily routines and existing organizational habits, promoting a culture of continuous development.
Acknowledging the constraints of modern professional life, Nicholl prioritized ease of use in her book’s design. Her strategic formatting, including a helpful ‘How To’ section, ensures that the book is not only accessible but also actionable, enabling readers to readily apply its concepts.
