The Truth about Willpower (it’s not what you think)

by | Lifestyle

A lot of people ask me about willpower because they think they don’t have enough of it.

Here’s what’s wild about that: it turns out, the fact that they think they don’t have enough willpower might be why they don’t have enough.

Say what?

Back in the 1990s, scientists came up with a theory called “ego depletion,” which basically says that willpower is a limited resource.

And, if you’re tired, stressed, or have made a ton of decisions during the day, you’re more likely to run out of it.

Which sets you up for skipping your planned workouts, ordering takeout instead of eating a healthy home-cooked meal, etc.

BUT… new research suggests that ego depletion may only apply if you believe in it.

So, if you believe you will run out of willpower, you probably WILL.

WOW.

But this is actually really good news.

It means you can take back control (and personal responsibility!) over your actions — and stop “relying” on willpower!

One way to do that: the next time you feel like you don’t have willpower, go into PROBLEM-SOLVING MODE.

Ask yourself: Why do you feel like your willpower is slipping?

  • Is it a schedule problem?
  • A planning problem?
  • Are your expectations too high, too soon?
  • Are you tired?
  • Are you stressed or upset?

Nothing is more motivating than feeling like you’re making solid progress — and the way to keep moving forward is to keep solving those problems!

Rob Quimby, CPT

Owner, Fitness Lifestyle LLC

513-772-4530
www.fitnesslifestylellc.com
fitnesslifestyle67@gmail.com
rob@fitnesslifestylellc.com

Rob is the owner and founder of Fitness Lifestyle Personal Training. He has been training for over thirty-three years; seventeen of those years as a personal trainer helping others reach their goals.

Ready to ditch cookie cutter fitness advice?

Want personalized health and fitness advice?

The “I’ll start in January” excuse …

The “I’ll start in January” excuse …

This mindset can make-or-break your results – especially this time of year. It has to do with “either/or” thinking … and in a nutshell, it works like this: Either you’re 100% on track… or you’re completely off.  If you’ve ever said, “I’ll start in the New Year,” or “I’ll start on Monday,” chances are you were caught in this kind of thinking.

read more
The 12 Days of Fitmas Challenge

The 12 Days of Fitmas Challenge

Regular exercise will help you blow off some stress, boost your immunity, improve your sleep and lower your risk of a long list of chronic diseases. This workout is proof that you can get all those benefits in a short amount of time!

read more
A 5-Step Guide to Enjoy a Healthy Holiday Season

A 5-Step Guide to Enjoy a Healthy Holiday Season

You know I am a big believer in being “in the moment,” right?  It’s huge for helping you relieve stress, focus on what’s important, and get the most out of every day. But … I HAVE AN IMPORTANT EXCEPTION. And it has to do with something I hear every. single. year from my clients.

read more

MORE FROM THE BLOG

Meal Prep Superfood Bowl Recipe

Meal Prep Superfood Bowl Recipe

Your new favorite meal prep recipe is here! This Superfood Bowl comes together fast using convenience foods!  In just a few minutes, you can have 4 healthy meals ready to go for lunch or dinner… and if you want to add more protein, just add 3-4 ounces (80-115 g) of chopped rotisserie or grilled chicken to each serving. 

read more
Tiny Habits Lead to BIG Changes!

Tiny Habits Lead to BIG Changes!

You already know that habits have the power to transform your life, but most people make the mistake of aiming too big. The secret isn’t in overhauling your entire routine overnight, but in making small, almost effortless changes that snowball over time. That’s why...

read more
How Stress Can Affect Your Gut Health

How Stress Can Affect Your Gut Health

I’m going to ask you to do something a little weird right now. Ready? Picture your favorite, most decadent food. Maybe it’s a thick slice of rich chocolate cake … or a hot slice of cheesy pizza straight from the oven. Maybe it’s buttery lobster or a juicy burger...

read more

Ready to Ditch Cookie Cutter Fitness Advice??