Ask anyone how their New Year’s resolutions are coming along at the end of January and you’ll probably get a heavy sigh, followed by a groan and an eye-roll. This is because resolutions are usually centered on our denying ourselves something we enjoy very much in the name of self-discipline and self-improvement.

While our intentions are admirable, the fact is these types of resolutions force us not only to exert will-power but to fight our own brain chemistry.

Recent scientific studies on addictive behaviors have confirmed what many of us had intuitively suspected for years. The brain is hard-wired to seek out the experiences that provide the most pleasure. This means your brain is designed to search out cheesecake and a comfy spot on your sofa.

Does this mean we get to replace “The Devil made me do it” with “my brain made me do it”? Not exactly.

What it does mean, however, is that our resolutions will ultimately be more successful if we focus our energies on doing more of what we enjoy instead of resisting.

Self improvement and enjoyment don’t have to be at odds. Think about those things you really, really enjoy that might actually be good for you.

Do you enjoy listening to good music, taking a walk in nature, reading a good book, or catching up with good friends? Think about the positive, enjoyable, life-affirming things you really love and resolve to incorporate more of those into your life.

Doesn’t doing more of what you love sound like fun? This way, when people ask you how your New Year’s resolutions are going, you can say – They are going so well, I added some more!

Hi from Australia!!! Yes I know I registered as Canadian....but you didn't give me many choices!!! (LMAO)
I finally found your site after loving your "party pants" book for so long(I reread it every time I need to shake or pick myself up)
I have to say I INVENTED the "more" newyears resolution!! I decided 4 years ago not to do the old 'lose weight, get exercise...blah blah ones'......I had a ball answering people with "More for Me ones" ....(1)"I'm going to have more sex" (forget the quality..if I get the quantity...I'll still be happy!!!)...The look on my husbands face was SOOOO worth it!
(2) More coffees, movies, meals (you name it) with my most fun and inspiring girlfriends. This led to an annual holiday ,without the husbands and kids...that is still going strong 3yrs later. Oh in fact , so many "mores" I've run out of space!
Cheers!!

Hi from Perth Australia!!

Am listening to a copy of your talk at the I Can Do It Conference and I am myself silly.

Thanks Loretta.... I cant wait to get the book... Party Pants how funny is that...

Thanks for the little reminders