How many days of practice are typically needed to form a habit?

The concept of forming a habit often revolves around the idea that it takes around 21 days for a new behavior to become automatic. This belief originated from Dr. Maxwell Maltz in the 1960s, who noted that it took people about three weeks to adjust to major life changes. Hence, the figure of 21 days is often cited as a benchmark for habit formation.

While more recent research suggests that the time required to form a habit can vary widely and could take from a few weeks to several months, the notion of 21 days remains popular in discussions about behavior change and habit development. This timeframe provides a practical starting point for individuals seeking to establish new routines or behaviors in their lives.

The other options present different durations that do not have the same recognition linked to habit formation. Although people often mention varying periods like 14 days, 30 days, or even just 7 days in relation to change, 21 days serves as a commonly accepted average that aligns with the traditional understanding of how long it typically takes to establish a new habit in one's daily routine.