How Long Does it Take to Form a Habit?
How long does it take to form a habit? 21 days of course. At least, that’s the answer I always hear when this question is posed. However, a new meta-analysis reveals that habit formation likely takes quite a bit longer.
Published in Healthcare, a new meta-analysis conducted by a team of Australian scientists represents the current state of the science on habit formation. Researchers examined habits connected to a myriad of health behaviors, ranging from flossing one’s teeth to improving one’s diet to engaging in more exercise.
Based on data from studies that included 2601 participants, the researchers provide three take-home messages:
On average, it takes 2 to 5 months to form a habit. 21 days to form a habit is largely a myth.
Variability in time to habit formation is significant – from 4 days to 335 days. This variability is due to the nature and complexity of the habit as well as the motivation of the participant.
“21-day” challenges are often insufficient for habit formation, especially for complex behaviors, like exercise and healthy eating.
Take-home message: Give yourself an extended time frame to form a new health habit.
“I will form good habits and become their slaves.” Og Mandino.
