Introduction

For over 30 years we've studied people from all walks of life trying to break old habits — some succeeded, most failed. Those who succeeded typically followed steps outlined in this book.

You know from repeatedly breaking New Year's resolutions that it takes more than willpower and brains to succeed. We all have a very wise but mouthy little person living inside our heads — call them Tiny — who tries to tell us when we're being dumb. Most of us have figured out how to muzzle Tiny. Well, show you how to use your particular Tiny's accumulated wisdom about you and your well-honed ability to fall off the wagon.

As Oprah said concerning a recent weight gain: I didn't just fall off the wagon. I let the wagon fall on me.

Making and Keeping Resolutions

In the beginning, we show you how to make smarter resolutions. More importantly, in the remainder of the book, we show you how to keep them.

Troubleshooting and Staying on Track

The last five chapters focus on trouble shooting, on showing you how to climb out, and stay out, of the rut after you've invariably slipped back in.