Heath, Chip & Heath, Dan, Switch – How to Change Things When Change is Hard, 2010.

The authors build upon the metaphor that our divided mind is that of a rational Rider perched upon a powerful, emotional Elephant. The Rider holds the reins and seems to be the leader. But the Rider’s control is precarious because it is so small relative to the powerful Elephant.

The Heaths say that, “Anytime the six-ton Elephant and the Rider disagree about which direction to go, the Rider is going to lose. He’s completely overmatched.”

The Heaths point to research that suggests that change is hard and self-control is an exhaustible resource. In other words, when you try to change things, like your eating or work habits, your Rider is called upon to work hard. After a while, a tired Rider won’t be able to lead an unwilling Elephant and you will run out of will power.

While changing yourself or others is never easy, the Heaths say it will be easier if you can get the Rider and the Elephant to work together. This compelling book offers a three-part framework to guide your change process: direct the Rider, motivate the Elephant, and shape the path.