Changing habits can be challenging, it is vitally important to focus on creating new habits (rather than having too much focus on what you are trying to stop). Previously we have been told that it takes 21 days to form a habit, however, recent research from the University of South Australia has revealed that it takes more like 59 to 335 days to truly embed a new habit into our lives. So don’t feel disheartened or think you have failed if it takes longer than you expected.
In episode 101 of The Wellness Connection podcast, I delved deeper into the science behind habit formation. It is important to understand that habit formation is building neural pathways; which are formed over time through repetitive actions. The analogy of a baby learning to walk remarkably illustrates this point; just as a baby strengthens its muscles and creates new neural connections through practice, adults must do the same when establishing healthy habits.
Our brains are wired to revert to past behaviours easily – habits that have been reinforced over time become our default responses. Therefore, changing an unhealthy habit requires not just intention but persistence, showing up over and over again, just like a baby learning to walk. A baby does not just give up and sit there!
There are four stages of habit learning, we move from “unconsciously incompetent”, where you may not even recognise your unhealthy habits to “consciously competent,” where you actively work to change your behaviours.
This journey requires conscious effort and strategy before eventually achieving the stage of “unconsciously competent,” where the new behaviour becomes second nature. This method is akin to athletes or musicians who develop their skills through practice and repetition until their actions become instinctual.
Remember, it is crucial to have realistic expectations and recognise that setbacks are part of the process rather than indications of failure. Ultimately if you want to create new, healthier habits, you need to begin and just keep showing up for yourself.
Listen to or watch the podcast episode (below) for a more thorough understanding of this topic or book a consultation with me, where I can help you identify, and do something about “what is getting in the way” of you achieving your health goals.
Book a consultation with Fiona by clicking here.
Listen to or watch episode 101 below. Or find the Wellness Connection with Fiona Kane on your fave podcast app.
