Maxwell Maltz, a plastic surgeon published his thoughts on habit formation in the book Psycho-Cybernetics, in 1960. This book became a blockbuster hit, with an average sale of 30-million + copies. Since then, Maltz’s work has influenced many self-help professionals like Brain Tracy, Tony Robbins, Zig Ziglar and many more. While Maltz conveyed that it takes a minimum of 21 days to form a habit; people misinterpreted it as it takes 21 days to form any new habit. Once the realization hit experts, many researches were carried out as to how long it actually takes to form a new habit. The results suggest that on an average; it takes around 66 days or 2 months to create habits. Even creating important workplace habits can take longer than 21 days.
Workplace Habits
Now obviously if you want to create an impression at your work place; it is necessary that you develop good workplace habits. But to do so, you need to give yourself at least 2 months patiently. You need to practice these habits rigorously for a minimum time span of 66 days before they get naturally imbibed in your behavior.
Workplace Habits
So what are these workplace habits that can create a positive impression at your organization? Have a look below –
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Punctuality
This is the one of the most important workplace habits and behavioral aspect which can garner immense positive reviews. Note it down, cram it up or make it your life statement; but never underestimate the importance of punctuality. If you think 10 minutes here and there don’t matter; then remember that it does matter when it comes to your organization.
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Be Proactive
Start taking initiative for tasks that may seem very small; like making coffee, taking responsibilities or helping a co-worker. Even though these tasks seem small; they have a huge impact on your impression. Doing such chores will put you forward as a helpful and responsible colleague. Workplace habits such as being proactive, creates a win-win situation for the receiver and doer both.
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Be Organized
Now who doesn’t like a clean and tidy cubicle? Your workplace hygiene reflects your personal taste of cleanliness also. If your cubicle seems shabby or untidy, your colleagues will automatically judge your own cleanliness habits from that. Remember; do not go overboard with your hygiene rituals; like instructing others to clean their desks or being very tacky about neatness.
Also remember that being tidy is not limited to your cubicle; it also means that you should follow hygiene rules in the general area and restroom also. Start being organized with your stuff today; so that by the end of two months it gets imbibed in your routine.
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Be a Team Player
If you are the kind of a person who lives in their own world; break that habit at least during work hours. Do not remain in your little cubicle the whole day immerged in work. Your co-workers may not even notice you or know about your personal talents. Instead, become an active team player. Help people with their problems, share your ideas, have a talk or crack a joke with others during breaks; or do anything that helps build inter-personal relations and trust with your team mates. Trust-building is definitely an important aspect to good workplace habits.
But do not go overboard doing this. Try not to present yourself as the smartest person in the room; or dominating your ideas over others.
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Be Alert about Office Etiquette
When everyone is working in an organization, no one wants to get disturbed by annoying ringtones or loud conversations. If you are the kind of person who spends hours at mindless web browsing or chit-chats; start changing these habits from this moment itself. Keep your phone on a silent or vibrating mode so that your calls don’t distract others. Additionally, be cautious about wasting time on long breaks or personal calls. Also try to talk in a lower tone and respect the personal space of others.
In a conclusion, these habits won’t come to anyone over-night. But if you practice them with patience even for two months or just 66 days; you can stay rest assured that it will create a positive impression and a lifetime of goodwill for you.