They say it takes 21 days to create a new habit. That’s kind
of a weird idea though, isn’t it? It doesn’t take that long to form a bad
habit. And sometimes no matter how hard we try it takes us a lot longer to form
a new habit.
So how long does it really take to create a new habit? The
answer is that it depends. It depends on your mindset and it depends on how big
of a change it is from what you are doing now. If it is your habit to eat a
bowl of ice cream at night and you switch from regular ice cream to a low sugar
frozen yogurt version, it’s probably not going to take you very long to make
that new habit. Giving up ice cream altogether though or cutting out all sugar
on the other hand might take a lot longer.
When we ask that question, what we really want to know is
how long do we have to tough it out before it gets easier. Is there a light at
the end of the tunnel where we don’t have to try so hard anymore? In other
words, when will this new behavior become automatic?
While it will be different from one person to the next and
even from one habit to the next, there are a few things to keep in mind.
It’s easier to make a new habit than get rid of an old one.
Be prepared to work a lot harder to give up checking your email every 2 minutes
or snacking late at night. Whenever possible, try to replace an old habit with
a new one. For example if you’re wanting to give up coffee, brew a cup of
herbal tea in the morning and throughout the day when you would usually reach
for your cup of Joe.
Habits will form faster if you stick to the same time and
environment each day. Instead of going for a walk whenever, keep your sneakers
next to the door and schedule your walk every day at 6pm, right after dinner
for example.
A constant reminder of why you’re trying to change your
behavior is also helpful. Remind yourself every day that you’re exercising so
your body stays strong and you can go play with the kids or grandkids in the
yard. Or put up a picture to remind you that you’re making frugal habits so you
can one day purchase your dream home. Keep your reason why you’re changing
front and center and then be prepared to stick it out. Yes it will take some
time to make new habits and replace old ones.
It doesn't take me long to formulate a new habit, which could be both BAD and GOOD! ha!
ReplyDeleteGreat post. Lots of great info. I'm learning as a health coach that someone will succeed in changing their life if they do it for 6 months or more.
ReplyDeleteI've always heard this 21 day thing...somethings I can create a habit out of overnight (seriouslly!) but others it seems like alifetime...think it depends on how your brain is wired...I'm slightly OCD :) type A to the max!
ReplyDeleteDefinitely way easier to form a bad habit than a good one!
ReplyDeleteGreat points! I think that it is as easy to form a good habit as it is to stop a bad one--mindset, support, intention, and duration are all important!
ReplyDeleteGreat point about forming a new habit vs stopping a bad habit. I know I struggle with giving up things way more than adding something into my life!
ReplyDeleteMindset, support, intention, and duration are all important when trying to create a new habit. I also find it helpful to focus on what I will do/start instead of what I won't do/stop.
ReplyDeleteGreat post- I need to share this with my client who is having some issues forming healthy habits.
ReplyDeleteGreat tips. Creating new habits can be challenging but I think trying to make it part of routine really helps. Accountability by sharing your goals with others helps too!
ReplyDeleteThis kind of goes along with my "fake it until you make it" motto. Just keeping doing something and eventually it will be your life!
ReplyDeleteLove this Cassi.You basically keep doing it, without "overthinking" it until it becomes second nature. Great post!
ReplyDeleteMy schedule changes from day to day and that really influences creating my habit of exercising daily. I try to be as prepared as possible (gym clothes stashed everywhere) so that I make it to the gym when I can.
ReplyDeleteThese are great tips! I always find it is easier to form a new habit if you find a way to make that habit somewhat enjoyable.
ReplyDeletea lot of it really depends on the mental health too...and the motivation. i find that im able to bring in healthier habits if im motivated rather than being forced to do something.
ReplyDeleteI tend to think it takes longer than 3 weeks, but that IS enough time to set yourself on the path to a new habit, which is better than nothing!
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