7 Secrets about Your Willpower
And why it matters to strengthen it.
Secret 1: Like Muscles
Willpower is like muscles, so everyone has willpower. Some have more, and others have less.
Secret 2: You can grow it
You can strengthen your willpower, but you have to be careful. Putting too much on you can quickly drain your will. It's the same as putting too much weight on when you exercise. You have to find the right spot and then practice continuously.
Secret 3: Willpower isn't Motivation
We often mismatch willpower with motivation. With willpower, you can do things without motivation. Let me give you an example. You can go to buy groceries, even if you don't feel the urge to go out of your home. On the other hand, motivation is a feeling of excitement to do something.
Secret 4: Amateurs vs. Pros
Amateurs rely on motivation. Professionals rely on willpower.
Secret 5: A limited resource
Whenever you make a choice, your willpower drains. It starts with picking the right clothes in the mornings and continues with food choices, what tasks you will focus on in the day and so forth.
Secret 6: Your environment matters
You can save on your willpower with proactive environmental design, such as a minimalist wardrobe or not having junk food at home. There are many ideas for improving your environment and reserving your willpower for more important things. Imagine seeing that cold coke every time you open your fridge. It drains your will to something you desire, and you must make a choice, consciously or unconsciously.
Secret 7: How you can recover it
With sleep! It's a simple one. During sleep, your willpower recovers as your muscles do.
Life is Easier with Strong Willpower
The comparison of willpower and muscles makes it visual. Imagine someone athletic going up a mountain: This person will get more quickly to the peak as a couch potato. The athlete will enjoy the hike, not complaining about every step. Let the mountain embody the healthy things you want to do in life. You might have to start with a hill or a single step. Over time, you can become athletic, but only if you practice a bit ahead of what you can do every day. The higher you get, the easier daily decisions become. And so the more joyful your life will be.
