Wikipedia has this to say about habits. "Habit formation is the process by which a behavior, through regular repetition, becomes automatic or habitual." We all have habits, some good and some bad. As parents with young children, we try to establish good habits early in life. Things like choosing clothes and making lunches for school the night before go a long way towards a calm and event free morning. As we get older, we know habits may change. When I go to the gym later this afternoon I will find the people that have developed the good habit of exercise. I don't know them by name but I recognize them by their regular Sunday afternoon workout habit. How long does it take to develop a good habit? Some say 18 days. Others will tell you it takes 21 days to change bad to good. A study reported in the Huffington Post says that it takes anywhere from 2-8 months to develop a good habit. Change is hard. If you are trying to change a habit, my suggestions are to create a plan for change, surround yourself with like minded people, and get your mind around the change you are trying to make. Sometimes you just have to dig your heels in with determination when motivation fades.
