It Takes 21 Days To Form A Habit Quote
Have you ever heard the phrase, "It takes 21 days to form a habit"? This quote has been around for decades and is often used as motivation when trying to create new habits or break old ones. But is it true?
The Origin of the Quote
The quote is often attributed to Dr. Maxwell Maltz, a plastic surgeon who wrote the book "Psycho-Cybernetics" in 1960. In the book, Maltz wrote that it takes a minimum of 21 days for an old mental image to dissolve and a new one to jell.
However, it's important to note that Maltz never actually stated that it takes 21 days to form a habit. He was referring to the time it takes for a person to adjust to a new self-image after a plastic surgery procedure.
The Truth About Forming Habits
While the 21-day rule may not be entirely accurate, it is true that forming a new habit takes time and consistency. According to a study published in the European Journal of Social Psychology, it takes an average of 66 days for a new habit to become automatic.
The study also found that the amount of time it takes to form a habit varies depending on the complexity of the habit and the individual's circumstances. Some habits may take longer to form, while others may become automatic more quickly.
The Importance of Consistency
One of the key factors in forming a new habit is consistency. It's important to practice the new habit every day, even if it's just for a few minutes. This helps to reinforce the new behavior and make it more automatic over time.
Consistency is also important when trying to break old habits. It can be helpful to replace the old habit with a new one and practice the new behavior consistently over time.
Tips for Forming New Habits
Here are some tips for forming new habits:
- Start small and focus on one habit at a time.
- Be specific about what you want to achieve.
- Make a plan and set goals for yourself.
- Practice the new habit consistently every day.
- Reward yourself for your progress.
The Bottom Line
While the 21-day rule may not be entirely accurate, it is true that forming a new habit takes time and consistency. The key is to practice the new habit consistently every day and be patient with yourself.
Remember, forming a new habit is a process, and it's important to celebrate your progress along the way. With time and consistency, you can create new habits that stick.
