Former Inmate Shares Six Enduring Habits from His Time in Prison

Derrick Moore, a recovering drug addict and motivational speaker, has openly shared the six habits he continues to follow after spending significant time in prison due to his substance abuse. Now sober for four years and author of '7 Steps From Addiction to Sobriety', Moore details his past experiences and how they shape his present life. In a viral TikTok video, he highlights unique habits acquired during his 14 years of imprisonment stemming from his struggles with alcoholism and drug addiction that began after losing his athletic scholarships at 18.

Among the habits Moore discusses is the practice of kneeling to urinate, a technique he adopted to prevent messiness. He also explains the importance of having “one person in the kitchen at a time,” equating this to the limited space of a prison cell, which serves multiple functions. This principle, he shares, is about courtesy and efficiency, as the cramped quarters of a cell make it impractical for more than one person to occupy the space at once.

Moore recounts other habits, such as rolling his socks and underwear to maintain their condition—knowledge he gained from inmates who offered laundry services. He notes the daily count time, a routine in prisons where inmates must be present for a headcount by guards, which he utilized for a quick nap. He also highlights how he developed a habit of eating quickly in communal dining settings where limited seats necessitated fast eating to allow others their turn.

Furthermore, he reflects on his newfound caffeine habit, which began during incarceration, as many inmates turn to coffee for its stimulating effects. The video, which has amassed millions of views, drew a mix of reactions, with some suggesting he should let go of these habits while others defended him by noting that structure gained in prison can be beneficial. Moore firmly believes these practices contribute positively to his life, emphasizing their role in fostering respect and structure.