“Superhabit” is my word for virtue. I use it because it is more descriptive — a superhabit is a superpower habit — and because the word “virtue” means so many different things to different people, not all of them good.

It is a good habit that makes you good. It is a habit of excellence. It is what Positive Psychology researchers call a “character strength”.

Superhabits, such as courage, are different from regular habits, like brushing your teeth, because they are more broadly applicable. The superhabit of courage can be used on the football field, on the battlefield, or when making a speech. The habit of brushing your teeth is good for, well, brushing your teeth.

Superhabits also make you healthier and happier; extensive research in Positive Psychology make a strong case for this.

Why do superhabits make us happier and healthier? The ancient philosophers argue — and I think that they are correct — that each superhabit/virtue is a particular human potential that is waiting to be activated. Once it is activated, through repeated practice, it makes us more of who we are, and hence we become happier and healthier, as well as more effective.

Other habits are like tools that we might add to a toolbox, each one more or less optional. Superhabits, on the other hand, are like wheels on a truck. None are optional, and all are already present. Some might be in need of a bit of pumping up, others might be entirely flat. But they’re all there already, waiting to be used.

An even better analogy: superhabits are like muscles. They’re already there — you already have them. Some might be a little feeble, a little atrophied. But with daily practice, they can be strengthened. As you strengthen each, you become happier, healthier, and more effective.

Superhabits are the way to a happy, healthy, and successful life.