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How long does it take to form a habit?
The short answer
About two months, on average. In the best-known study, a new daily habit took a median of 66 days to feel automatic. The range was wide, from 18 to 254 days, and missing a single day did not undo the progress.
By the Polaris team · Last reviewed · 2 minute read
What the study found
Researchers at University College London followed 96 volunteers for 12 weeks. Each chose one new eating, drinking or activity habit to do every day.
The study ran for 84 days, so the longest times are estimates from each person's own curve.
- 66 daysThe median time for a habit to feel automatic.
- 18 to 254Days, from the fastest person to the slowest.
- 1 missed dayMade no real difference to forming the habit.
What that means for you
Expect a new habit to take a couple of months, not a couple of weeks. And expect to miss days along the way.
Missing a day doesn't break a habit. Giving up does.
