What's Up Docs? Should we be turning over a new leaf in January?
Jan 6, 2026
Alasdair Cant, a behaviour change specialist with over 30 years in health and social care, joins the van Tulleken twins to explore the psychology behind New Year's resolutions. He discusses why we often revert to old habits and offers insights on sustainable change. Alasdair emphasizes the power of choice over instruction, encourages kindness over self-loathing, and reframes setbacks as opportunities for growth. He shares practical tips, like planning for lapses, and highlights the importance of aligning desires with actions for more meaningful change.
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Counting During A Home Birth
- Xand described bungled counting while supporting a home birth and the frustration it caused.
- He eventually focused, did the job better, and celebrated the baby's safe arrival.
Rethink New Year Overhauls
- New Year optimism is helpful but often paired with unrealistic all-or-nothing expectations.
- Alasdair Cant recommends reframing change as development and building on past attempts rather than total reinvention.
Be Kinder In Your Self-Talk
- Listen to your self-talk and notice unkind phrases you use under your breath.
- Replace self-loathing with curiosity and kindness and treat past attempts as useful learning.