According to one of the most comprehensive habit studies conducted by habit researcher Phillipa Lally of University College London, it can take anywhere from 18 – 254 days to forge one habit, depending on the complexity of the habit.
In my Rich Habits Study, in which I studied the daily habits of self-made millionaires, I identified certain habits that are the easiest to forge:
Automate Savings
This habit is among the easiest to automate because all it requires is one decision – setting up an automated savings program. Once you specify how much you will save every paycheck, the savings is automatically directed into a separate savings account. This forces you to live below your means, meaning to survive financially living off the remaining net pay check.
Living Below Your Means
This is another habit that only requires one smart decision. Since a home is the most significant cost for most people, living in a modest home, in a modest neighborhood reduces your rent or mortgage payment, real estate taxes, utility costs, home maintenance costs and home repair costs. Like a domino, this one habit reduces many other related costs.
Daily Self-Improvement
Daily self-improvement is one of the most powerful Rich Habits. It helps you grow your knowledge-base and your skill set. Just 20-30 minutes a day of daily self-improvement sets you apart from the competition.
Eating Healthy
Eating right helps reduce weight, improve your cardiovascular system and introduces healthy bacteria (microbiota) into your gut, boosting your immune system. All this habit requires is one or two healthy meals a day.
About Thomas C. Corley
Thank you for all the work you do. It has influenced me tremendously. I grew up with many of these habits and have set a wealth building timeline for my family. I really appreciate the work you do and wish more Americans would adopt these habits and allow their families to flourish!