In previous years, I have published similar articles either before the New Year or as the first article of the New Year. However, the human memory is wounded by forgetfulness, so it appreciates being reminded of something that concerns it.
Many people want to do things differently in their lives, to take the initiative to make a breakthrough in their careers, to give up some behaviors that they do not find appropriate, to develop new habits that they think are healthier and better. Quitting smoking, starting sports, taking action to learn a new language, starting a diet and losing weight are some of the main examples of such wishes and decisions. However, both our personal experiences and observations show that most of these decisions are either not put into practice at the beginning or, even if they are put into practice, they are abandoned after a short period of time and remain fruitless.
This situation has attracted the attention of scientists and has been the subject of their research. According to one author, for some people, saying they are going to “do” something feels as good as doing it. Saying at any time of the year that one will quit smoking in the New Year, or go on a strict diet to lose excess weight, or resolve to save a portion of one’s income on a regular basis, makes it justifiable and possible for a person to smoke without feeling guilty in the months ahead, to continue eating whatever they feel like eating, or to spend on non-essential expenses.
According to a study, emotions force a person to make a promise, but the person’s capacity is not enough to fulfill that promise. This is b