The 21 Day Habit Formation Myth: Debunking the Truth

🔄Forming a new habit or getting rid of an old one takes 2 to 8 months, not just 21 days.

⏰The time required to form a habit depends on the complexity of the goal and behavior consistency.

📚The 21-day habit formation myth originated from a book by Dr. Maxwell Maltz, but it lacks scientific evidence.

🕒The 66-day mark is more accurate for habit formation, but the timeframe varies for each individual.

💪Commitment, embracing the process, and making consistent improvements are crucial for habit formation.

Is it true that it takes 21 days to form a new habit?

—No, that is a myth. According to a study by psychologist Philippe Lally, it takes approximately 2 to 8 months, with an average of 66 days, to form a new habit.

What factors affect the time required to form a habit?

—The complexity of the goal and behavior consistency are two factors that influence the time it takes to form a habit.

Where did the 21-day habit formation myth come from?

—The 21-day habit formation myth originated from a book by Dr. Maxwell Maltz, but it lacks scientific evidence.

Can habits be formed faster or longer than the average timeframe?

—Yes, the timeframe for forming a habit varies for each individual. Some may form a habit within 18 days, while others may take up to 254 days.

What is the key to forming a new habit?

—The key to forming a new habit is commitment, embracing the process, and making consistent improvements over time.

00:13Many people believe that it takes only 21 days to form a new habit or get rid of an old one.

01:21The 21-day habit formation myth originated from a book by Dr. Maxwell Maltz, but it lacks scientific evidence.

03:56Psychologist Philippe Lally conducted a study and found that it actually takes approximately 2 to 8 months, with an average of 66 days, to form a new habit.

06:42The time it takes to form a habit depends on the complexity of the goal and behavior consistency.

08:02Commitment, embracing the process, and making consistent improvements are crucial for habit formation.