Why habits fail? (And also how to make them stick)

Unlocking the secret to making habits stick reveals an unexpected twist: flexibility beats rigidity. While consistency is touted as the cornerstone of habit formation, an overly structured approach may be sabotaging your efforts.

In a study targeting 2,500 Google employees aiming to boost their exercise regimen, researchers explored the impact of different approaches: strict routines, flexible plans, and a control group. The strict group adhered to designated exercise times, while the flexible group had the freedom to work out whenever convenient. Both were rewarded upon completion, while the control group exercised without guidelines or incentives.

Initially, both the routine and flexible groups, incentivized by rewards, exercised more frequently. However, when the rewards ceased after four weeks, the flexibility proved its worth. Participants in the flexible group were twice as likely to sustain their gym routine compared to those rigidly tied to specific exercise times.

This paradox underscores a vital lesson: rigid routines, while effective initially, falter in the face of life's unpredictability. Those bound to a strict regimen often struggle to adapt when disruptions occur, leading to lapses in consistency. Conversely, a flexible approach fosters resilience, enabling individuals to navigate unforeseen obstacles and stay on track.

Embracing imperfection becomes paramount in this paradigm. Rather than letting setbacks derail progress, a flexible mindset encourages adjustments to accommodate life's ebbs and flows. Whether it's modifying exercise times or navigating dietary challenges, a flexible plan fosters sustained consistency, transcending the allure of perfection for tangible progress.