Habits And Us I I

This is in continuation to my previous article. Here are some more exciting, amazing facts that help us understand the what, why and how of habits.

4. A common myth and the corresponding truth

The most common misconception people harbor about habits is the 21 days theory - that it takes just 21 days for a habit to form. This is not true! In fact, habits are real hard to form, and even harder to let go; it takes an average of 66 days before a new habit is engrained in the brain.

5. Why leaving a habit gives us tough times?

Here's a fact about the concrete-tough engraving big habits in our brains. The basal ganglia , in Layman's language the part of the brain where habits are formed is tucked deep inside the brain, being present at our prefrontal cortex which itself is right behind the forehead . That's where all complex thinking is done.

Researchers have even found out that habits rooted in the basal ganglia are strong enough to survive severe brain damage. This is why habits are tough to let go, in fact, we never truly get rid of them ; they are just overpowered by competing habits. This explains why old habits sometimes creep back into our lives.

6. New habit requirements:

Psychology Today says, you can’t “think” your way into a new habit but you must take some action. It is proven to be a more effective manner of quitting a bad habit faster. For further details about this fact, you can visit http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/the-fallible-mind/201304/it-takes-emotion-not-facts-change-habit

7. Cravings are crucial!!

A possible explanation for the above may be another factor that cravings drive the brain. Like, runners love running because they crave what we call a “runner’s high.”Alcoholics crave the release alcohol gives them. Footballers , Cricketers love the adrenaline rush and the feeling of winning accolades their sport provides them, along with immense recognition and of course, the money. So,in order for something to be truly a habit, your brain has to crave it.

8. Some interesting stuff:

Some of the most important habits for a healthy and productive life include healthy sleeping and the habit of self-acceptance which reportedly provided most happiness to people.

Hence, inculcating good habits is a must do for everyone. For first we form habits, then they form us. So, conquer your bad habits, or eventually, they'll conquer you. As little by little, this little becomes a lot.