Cretch it, you're late, sir. Cratch it

it you're late sir what do you mean coming in at this time a day I'm very sorry sir

sir I am behind my time sir or indeed step indeed. Step this way Mr. Cratchit please.

It's only once a year sir. It won't be repeated. I was making rather merry yesterday sir I'm sure you were well we won't beat about the

bush my friend I'm not going to stand this sort of thing any longer

it leaves me no alternative but to raise your salary. Oh, I haven't taken leave of my senses, Bob. I've come to them. From now on, I want to try to help you raise that family of yours, if you'll let me.

We'll talk it over later, Bob, over a bowl of hot punch.

I love that classic scene from Charles Dickens a Christmas carol.

Shortly after the character of Ebenezer Scrooge has transformed from a miserly grouch

to a happy, kind, and generous man.

Sure, it took three ghosts and a terrifying glimpse of his own death to change his outlook,

but there's something about this old story that still rings true.

In fact, the insights on happiness that Charles Dickens explored in a Christmas carol

are being confirmed by the latest research and behavioral science.

And that's what we're looking at today.

I'm Katie Milkman, and this is Choiceology, an original podcast from Charles Schwab.

It's a show about decisions, everyday choices and life-altering ones,

along with the psychological forces that influence them.

We highlight some of the suboptimal behaviors we humans exhibit

when we're trying to make good choices,

and we explore stories of make or break moments that hinge on a key decision. We do it all to help

you avoid costly mistakes. This time of year is often when calendars start to fill up with office parties and family gatherings.

...