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Health · 7 August 2026

Habits take 59 to 335 days to form, not just 21 days

Habits take 59 to 335 days to form, not just 21 days

Unsplash / Estée Janssens

The widely quoted "21 days to form a habit" rule is far too short, according to new research from the University of South Australia. Their review found that forming a habit takes an average of 59 to 66 days, with some needing up to 335 days. Many people might give up on new routines just as they are beginning to work.

Reported by siliconcanals.com · How we write briefs

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How do habits actually form? Where did 21 days come from? What is 'giving up too soon'?

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