CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A lot of folks are trying to start the new year off with good habits, but how long does it take to actually make those habits stick?
Here's what the science says about sticking to your new habits.
Forming habits involves a chemical process. Habits, both good and bad, are essentially formed the same way: through repetition and reward. One of the reasons good habits, like eating healthy or working out, are harder to develop is because the reward is delayed. Compare that to the instant gratification you get when you watch TV on the couch or eat junk food.
Therapists say in order to form a habit, it all starts with you. From there, it usually takes people a few weeks to several months to get their new habits to stick. Psychologists generally say forming a habit takes 66 days on average.
As for how consistent you must be with your new habit, don't worry if you miss a day here and there. You can take breaks every once in a while, but researchers found the longer you stick with it, the more motivated you'll be to keep that habit going for the long haul.
WCNC Charlotte To Go is a daily news and weather podcast you can listen to so you can start your day with the team at WCNC Charlotte.
SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcasts || Spotify || Pandora || TuneIn || Google Podcasts || iHeart
All of WCNC Charlotte's podcasts are free and available for both streaming and download. You can listen now on Android, iPhone, Amazon, and other internet-connected devices. Join us from North Carolina, South Carolina, or on the go anywhere.