Saturday, December 15, 2012

Willpower is your "self-control muscle".

Willpower is your "self-control muscle" that helps us commit to, and complete, our goals.

Like all muscles, willpower needs to be trained. Start with something small: perhaps giving up a snack for a piece of fruit or hold-off checking your Facebook account during work hours. Set yourself a goal and concentrate on completing it. 

When you think about giving in - don't

Temptation will always be there but starting small will help develop your self-control and allow you to set greater goals in the future.

Remember, your willpower is like every other muscle and needs to be looked after as such. Like your biceps or triceps, it needs rest and relaxation before tackling another workout. When you feel your willpower waning, take the time to rest. If rest is not an option, research shows that thinking about someone who has incredible willpower, such as world leaders and successful 
athletes, can help boost your own self-control recovery.



Another option is a pick-me-up, something that puts you in a good mood, lifts your spirits - listening to a favorite song, calling a friend or reflecting on a past success are good examples.

Willpower, like a muscle, will grow stronger in time. Recent studies show that daily activities such as workout routines, keeping track of your finances or eating correctly can help 
strengthen your resolve and put you on the path to greater self-control.

Remember the three most important things to building and maintaining your willpower are:

1.       Willpower isn't an infinite source so take a break before 
          taking on a new challenge.

2.       Speed up your recovery by lifting your spirits when you 
          feel the tank is running a bit low

3.       Start small. Before tackling a big goal (such as quitting 
          smoking), start with something almost mundane and grow 
          from there.



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