In another study, psychologist Richard Wiseman invited a group of students out for drinks.

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Prof Richard Wiseman, who is launching the trial as part of the Edinburgh International Science Festival, wants thousands of people to take part.

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Psychologist Richard Wiseman from the University of Hertfordshire has studied the differences between the winners and losers in the resolution race and found those who fail, are more likely to fall by the wayside within the first week.

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