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FORGET New Year for life-changing resolutions — an expert has calculated the best date is TODAY.
Dr Cliff Arnall’s mathematical formula reveals pledges to give up smoking or lose weight stand far more chance of success if made on May 18.
The psychologist, from Cardiff University, devised his own calculation of M x O + Bh (H+R) x S.
M stands for motivation, O for opportunity and Bh is bank holiday proximity. The H in the second part equals increasing hours of daylight, while R equals reflection time and S is success.
Motivation specialist Dr Arnall previously worked out January 24 as the gloomiest day of the year.
And yesterday he said of his new calculation: “There’s a stigma attached to New Year resolutions which often dooms them to failure.
“By May, with more time for reflection and summer on the way, there is lots of positive energy around associated with renewal.
“So if you’ve got your heart set on promotion, May 18 is the day to take the first step.”
He was challenged to work out the date by the Department of Education’s Get On campaign.
Sun
