As 2024 knocks, my mind drifts with plans. The details start to swirl: Timing? Location? Company?

It creates a curious feeling of excitement. This sentiment was confirmed when I read Brett & Kate McKay's post exploring the connection between experiences and dopamine.

They wrote: “The key is not just to do new things but to wait to do them. When you delay the gratification of your desire and can look forward to a concrete time at which it will be fulfilled, you allow the delicious pleasure of anticipation to slowly crescendo as it draws closer.”

They went further: plan out your leisure + recreation.

• Schedule "micro-adventures" for the week: a weekend hike or dinner date.

• Choose when you visit that bookstore and bakery that you’ve been meaning to go to — and organize it with a friend you haven’t seen in a little.

It resonated. Savor the build-up!