Success habits have incredible power. They help us achieve our goals and create a healthy life. However, a theory supported by many says that it is enough to repeat an action for 21 consecutive days to form a new habit.
But how true is this? Are our bad habits easily replaceable with new habits? Are 21 days enough to create new positive habits?
PS: This myth began to spread based on the studies of Dr. Maxwell Maltz, who divided the formation of a new habit and following it into a 21-day period, but in fact, the way habits are formed is much more complicated.
According to the study published in the "European Journal of Social Psychology", it takes about 66 days to embrace a new habit, but this is also influenced by the person's behavior.
In this study, scientists asked participants who wanted to acquire a new habit to indicate when they felt they had made the habit part of the behavior. An overall average was 66 days.
Embracing a new habit is divided into 3 stages:
Phase 1: The motivation phase
This is the magic phase. After a motivational event, like a seminar you feel like you can achieve anything. Motivation is high and everything seems easy. But unfortunately, this moment doesn't last forever.
Stage 2: Confronting old habits
This is where the challenge begins. You feel tired and following the new habit seems more difficult. This is the stage when old habits tend to return. The key to getting to the next stage is to win some "battles".
Here are some strategies that can help:
Recognition: Accept the situation. When you feel at this stage, say, "I am challenged and must win some battles."
Questions: "How will I feel if I do this?" or: "How will I feel if I don't do this?". These questions will help you connect with your feelings.
Life Project: Imagine in detail what your life will be like in five years if you don't make changes. Be honest and project the scenarios in your mind.
Stage 3: New habits become more natural
When you reach this stage, you feel on the right track. Now the habit is part of your life. But beware! There are some interventions that can take you back to the second stage:
Discouragement: Inconspicuous results can make you feel like nothing is working.
Changes: Unexpected turns of circumstances, such as holidays or illness, can derail your progress.
The Lure of Success: When you start seeing results, you may think you've found the formula for success and ignore the process.
