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The length of time it takes to make a new habit stick, according to new research


Published on 2025-01-26 20:03:10 - MSN
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  • Old habits die hard
  • but so are new ones borne. Life hackers have long hypothesized about the existence of a provable time benchmark when a new practice becomes a disciplined skill. Old myths have suggested lengths of two to four weeks are all that's needed to train the brain to keep up with a new habit.

The article from MSN discusses recent research on how long it takes to form a new habit, challenging the commonly cited 21-day rule. According to a study published in the European Journal of Social Psychology, the time it takes to form a new habit can vary significantly, with an average of about 66 days for the behavior to become automatic. However, this duration can range from 18 to 254 days depending on the individual and the complexity of the habit. The research suggests that consistency is key, and missing a day does not significantly set one back, but rather, it's the overall pattern of behavior that matters. The article also emphasizes the importance of setting realistic expectations and understanding that habit formation is a gradual process influenced by personal factors, the nature of the habit, and environmental cues.

Read the Full MSN Article at:
[ https://www.msn.com/en-us/health/fitness-and-exercise/the-length-of-time-it-takes-to-make-a-new-habit-stick-according-to-new-research/ar-AA1xUb5Z ]