Researchers say that quitting a bad habit only needs 3-7 days. But getting the courage and mental strength to discontinue the habit for even a short period of time is not a matter of joke.
If we talk about the most harmless bad habit like biting your nails, this also needs a lot of mental strength, continuous effort to do that. And when it comes to something huge like any life-changing habit, then it surely is difficult.
I believe, having a vision in front of us is very necessary when it comes to quitting any bad habits. We should be clear 'where we want to see ourselves'. and 'how our life would be without the bad habit'. This vision can be the biggest motivation.
Write a letter to yourself on 'what will happen if I quit my bad habit'. Write down everything; any side effects, anything positive and negative one too. This will give you a very clear idea about how you need to plan to get rid of your bad habits.
When you discontinue any bad habit, it impacts positively in your brain. There is no need that the habit needs to be something big. Even quitting any small harmful thing like; talking negatively about people can give us about our life. Most importantly, it helps us to think positively about our own life. And thus it makes us feel good and increase happiness.
Maybe you are failing several times to quit any bad habits, maybe it's making your life more stressful but believe me this effort worth it. Just remind yourself 'what will happen' and 'the positive future' and I hope you will start to feel better.
Try to discontinue as soon as you realize and be strong on your decision, your life will be a lot better!