ALAN COHEN

If you have even the tiniest inkling that you might want to get in shape in the new year—or anytime really—don’t wait until January. The best time to start a gym habit is right now.

Whenever a generous impulse arises in your mind, give in to it right away rather than putting it off. Don’t wait to figure out if the recipient deserves your generosity or if you really have the time to be generous right now (with all of the work you have left to do!). Just do it. The rewards are...

If you find yourself wanting to check your phone when you can’t think of anything better to do, tell yourself it’s fine to give in, but not right now: you have to wait just ten minutes.

It helps you deal with all sorts of potential distractions, like googling something rather than working o...