The speaker discusses the concept of personal change and the formation of new habits. They share a personal anecdote about a failed attempt to form a new habit (making one's own bed) within 21 days, challenging the common belief in self-improvement circles. The speaker criticizes the "21-day habit-formation theory", arguing it's a myth perpetuated by the famous plastic surgeon Dr. Maxwell Maltz.
The speaker points out that the number 21 is appealing because it's a short period of time, but long enough to be believable. However, they argue that the time required to form a new habit or break an old one is largely dependent on the task itself, the individual, and their circumstances.
A study by psychologist Philippe Lally is cited, which followed 96 people over 12 weeks as they tried to form a new habit. The study found that it took an average of 66 days for the new habit to become automatic. However, the time it took varied greatly among participants, ranging from 18 days to 254 days.
The speaker concludes by emphasizing the importance of starting the process of change, regardless of how long it takes. They advise maintaining new habits, setting reminders, creating a supportive environment, and not being too hard on oneself when mistakes are made. They encourage listeners to commit to making small improvements over time, rather than aiming for rapid, drastic changes.
1. The speaker ponders about changing their habits to become a better version of themselves.
2. They acknowledge that change doesn't come easy and involves modifying existing habits and incorporating new ones.
3. The speaker recalls a personal experience of trying to form a new habit of making their bed, but failing after 21 days.
4. They express skepticism about the 21-day rule for habit formation, citing it as a "myth" in the world of self-development.
5. The speaker delves into the origin of the 21-day rule, tracing it back to Dr. Maxwell Maltz, a plastic surgeon in the 1950s, who observed that his patients took exactly 21 days to get used to their new noses after surgery.
6. Maltz's theory was popularized in his book, which sold over 30 million copies.
7. Despite the popularity of Maltz's theory, the speaker questions its validity, noting that the number 21 is considered a short period of time and a short of temptation.
8. The speaker shares a different perspective on habit formation, citing a study by psychologist Philippe Lally.
9. Lally's study followed 96 people over 12 weeks as they attempted to form new habits.
10. The study found that it took approximately two to eight months for the new habits to become ingrained, with the time varying based on the person and their circumstances.
11. The speaker concludes by emphasizing the importance of starting the habit change process today, maintaining consistency, creating a supportive environment, and embracing the process rather than rushing into becoming a better version of oneself.