I'm not saying you're wrong but it seems so backward. I didn't love computing as a kid because I had a habit of computing already. I got that because I was motivated to play with the computers. The motivation came first, not the habit.

Same with learning a 2nd language. First I got motivated to learn it. I didn't get the habit first. In fact I can't name anything I got a habit for before being motivated.

Again, I'm not saying you're wrong. I've heard this advice many times. And maybe forming a new habit leads to motivation. It's just counter intuitive based on what think is most people's experiences.

A related (restated?) point I like to keep in mind is: acting produces motivation, but you can't count on motivation to produce action.

Taking even the smallest step (or working on something for even 30 seconds) often overcomes the inertia that keeps the task/project unfinished. A little nudge is all I need to start building the momentum that will carry through to completion.