How Unlimited Willpower Can Help You Succeed

Is willpower really unlimited? Or do people eventually succumb to their cravings, habits, addictions, and weaknesses?

 Scientific research has indicated both points of view. Sure, a person may be able to withstand peer pressure and not give in. Or an individual may be able to say “No” over and over without flinching.

But does repeated willpower eventually take its mental toll?

A recent report from What You Need To Know About Willpower: The Psychological Science of Self-control, indicates “A growing body of research shows that resisting repeated temptations takes a mental toll. Some experts liken willpower to a muscle that can get fatigued from overuse.” 

However, a research team from the University of Miami has found contrary evidence. Ego depletion, the report shows, is not well founded. In fact, some studies have demonstrated that people show less willpower when the sugar levels in their bodies are depleted. Glucose is considered to be brain fuel, so it makes sense that people operate better with adequate sugar levels. Physical muscle fatigue is also another reason why willpower might not be as strong.

So there are various factors that might influence why some individuals show more willpower than others.

Some researchers earlier posited that self-esteem was an important element in promoting willpower while others have likened self-control to a moral muscle that needs to be flexed and developed.

The ability to delay gratification is well known in educators’ circles. High school students who can study hard to pass tests often do well in college. But for delayed gratification to be effective, the reward must be satisfying. A tangible goal, such as paying off a car loan, is more powerful than a dubious promise like eventually saving $50,000.

Willpower can take many forms, such as regular exercise, quitting smoking, laughing at unfunny jokes, and refusing your favorite dessert. So what is to be gained by exerting self-discipline in these situations?

Perhaps the abililty to be more successful. 

As catalysts, self-control and willpower have much to do with the outcome of progress in meeting a goal. Now it is becoming increasingly popular to claim that willpower is unlimited. 

If there are no true limits on our ability to withstand temptations, then yes, unlimited willpower could make almost anyone more successful.

Our belief systems often impact our actions, and so if we believe we are invincible for willpower, then maybe we can be.

What kinds of thoughts and behaviors can increase our willpower? 

Here are 10 hacks to help you to increase your willpower--

1. Build good habits every day.

2. Practice meditation and/or prayer.

3. Use your creative imagination.

4. Increase your capacity for stress.

5. Stick to a routine that works.

6. Get enough sleep to help your brain to function well.

7. Improve your nutritional plan.

8. Exercise vigorously at least 3x per week.

9. Make priorities and let other things go.

10. Reward yourself regularly with motivational items.