Habits are something we all want more of (better sleep, healthier eating, etc.), but also something we all want less of. Getting rid of bad habits is a lot easier said (done?) than done, however. In this blog post, we’ll explore the science of habits and offer some tips for making the process as easy as possible.
Forming a new habit can be tough. It takes time and effort to break old routines and establish new ones. How long does it take to form a habit, though? And is there a certain amount of time you need to devote each day to make it stick? In this blog post, we’ll explore the science of habits and offer some tips for making the process as easy as possible. Keep reading to learn more!
Well, How Long Does It Take to Form a Habit?
A habit is a behavioral pattern that is regularly followed and is relatively difficult to change.
There are several different theories about how habits are formed, but most likely it involves a combination of the following three factors: cognitive, motivational, and behavioral. Basically, what this means is that you have to form a habit by first thinking about it (cognitive), wanting to do it (motivational), and then actually doing it (behavioral).
Interestingly, once a habit has been formed, it often becomes automatic or subconscious. This means that you don’t have to think about it anymore and can just do it without any effort. And interestingly, research shows that people are more likely to stick to habits that they enjoy.
There are many ways to form a habit, but one of the most effective is to make a cue-routine-reward system. The cue is what triggers your routine, which is the behavior you want to form into a habit. The reward is what makes you feel good after completing the routine.
For example, if you want to develop the habit of brushing your teeth every night before bed, create a cue such as putting your toothbrush next to your bed. Then, establish the routine of brushing your teeth for two minutes. Finally, give yourself a reward such as 10 minutes of reading after brushing your teeth. Repeat this process for at least 21 days and voila – you have created a new habit!
The important thing to remember is that it’s not about how long it takes to form a habit, but rather how consistent you are with performing the desired behavior. So if you can be consistent for 21 days, you’re likely to form a habit. But if you only perform the desired behavior sporadically, it will likely take longer for the habit to form.
Another way to help form new habits is by using a rewards system. This means that you give yourself a reward for completing the desired behavior. For example, after I finish my workout, I might give myself some chocolate or allow myself to watch my favorite show for 30 minutes. This helps create an association between the desired behavior and pleasure, which makes it more likely that you will do it.
F.A.Q
Does it take 90 days to form a habit?
The 21/90 rule is a motivating approach to change that can take only 30 days to complete. Start with 21 days and a few good habits will help create the foundation of your new, healthier lifestyle. Persist for 90 days and you’ll soon be looking back on how far you’ve come in transforming your life.
How many times do you have to repeat a habit?
Obviously I cannot tell you what number it is for your case, but truth is that number doesn’t really matter, because if you want to create new habits for yourself or others, the process still doesn’t change.