The book’s main principle is that success comes from a consistent application of small, good habits over time. This leads to a Compound Effect that builds slowly, like an investment, until the results pile up to form a mountain of success.

To achieve this result, Darren Hardy argues, individuals must first become aware of habits and behaviors that erode their well-being. Like good habits, bad ones operate on the same principle of compound results: Over time, the effects accumulate. A slight habit of overeating, for example—an extra 125 calories a day—can add 33 pounds over two years. A $4 coffee each workday costs $1,000 per year, which, if invested at 8%, would generate over $50,000 in 20 years.

Habits of long standing are extremely hard to uproot. The only way to do so is consistently, a little at a time, until the habit changes and begins to bring improvements. Things get better slowly—the rewards accumulate, build on themselves, and, after many months or years, shower the practitioner with benefits. The process takes time, effort, and patience, but the result is well worth the wait.

Both good and bad habits can cause “ripple effects” that influence a person’s life beyond the direct effect of the habits themselves.