How Long It Takes To Change Your Life?

The duration required to transform one’s life is a complex and individualized process. Factors such as dedication, effort, mindset, and circumstances all play a role. Delve into this exploration to better understand the time and commitment needed for meaningful and lasting change in your life.

How Long Does It Take to Form a New Habit?

• Most people believe it takes 21 days to form a new habit or get rid of an old one.
• This belief is based on a famous myth in the world of self-development.
• The myth originated from Dr. Maxwell Maltz, a plastic surgeon, who noticed a pattern in his patients taking about 21 days to adjust to changes.
• However, this myth is not supported by reliable research.

“The 21-day theory is the most famous myth in the world of self-development.”

An Example of Trying to Form a New Habit

• The speaker shares a personal experience of trying to make his bed for 21 days to establish a habit.
• Despite his efforts, he was unable to sustain the habit beyond the 21-day mark.
• This highlights the myth’s impracticality and lack of effectiveness.

“I quit… Maybe I’m just gonna be a little bit worse at life than bed makers.”

The Origins of the 21-Day Myth

• Dr. Maxwell Maltz published a book in the 1950s that popularized the theory of 21 days to form a habit.
• Maltz observed that his plastic surgery patients took around 21 days to adjust to changes in their appearance.
• The number 21 was considered short enough to be believable but long enough to be challenging.

“The number 21 is considered a short period of time and a short of temptation.”

The Complexity of Goals and Behavior Consistency

• The time required to form a new habit depends on the complexity of the goal.
• Simple habits like eating fruit daily may take less time compared to complex athletic skills.
• The consistency of behavior also influences the speed of habit acquisition.

“The complexity of your goal and behavior consistency affect the speed of acquisition.”

The Reliable Study on Habit Formation

• A study conducted by psychologist Philippe Lally followed 96 participants over 12 weeks as they worked on forming new habits.
• The study found that it takes approximately 2 to 8 months for a habit to become ingrained.
• The specific time varied depending on the habit and individual circumstances.

“According to psychologist Lally, you may need 2 to 8 months, and not just 21 days.”

Importance of Starting and Maintaining a New Habit

• The actual time it takes to form a new habit is less important than taking the first step.
• Consistency and commitment are crucial in making a habit part of one’s routine.
• It’s essential to create reminders, a supportive environment, and not strive for perfection.
• Mistakes and setbacks do not have lasting effects on behavior change.

“You have to give yourself time and not rush yourself into becoming a better version.”

Change Requires Dedication and Embracing the Process

• Change is not always easy and simple, but it can be achieved with dedication.
• Instead of rushing into drastic changes, focusing on making small improvements over time is more effective.
• Commitment to the process is key to becoming the best version of oneself.

“Change is not always easy and it is not always simple, but with enough dedication, any habit can be reshaped.”

Final Call to Action

• To become the best version of oneself, it is essential to start taking action today.
• The length of time it takes to change is less important than committing to the process.
• The speaker encourages the audience to start working towards their goals now.

“Get up today and start working on it. I promise you all get there.”