Merriam-Webster defines willpower as "the ability to
control yourself : strong determination that allows you to do something
difficult (such as to lose weight or quit smoking)" To further define the meaning, let's say it
is the ability to forgo the momentary pleasure (what I want right now) for long
term contentment (what I want most). An
example might be: Right now I want this
doughnut, but what I want most is to be disease free and energetic. These two conflicting desires must be
balanced and the conductor that balances them is willpower.
The interesting thing about willpower is that it is a system
that can function at low or high levels depending on how strong it is at any
given time, meaning willpower can be strengthened or allowed to weaken
depending on how we exercise it. Think
of willpower as a system like your cardiovascular system that when worked and
conditioned will allow you to do more work over extended periods of time; or
similar to your muscular skeletal system that allows you to move more of a load
when it is strengthened by lifting weights.
Your willpower system (muscle) will get stronger each time you use it
(work it out).
For example, if you are out for dinner and everyone in your
group orders unhealthy food, and you forego the temptation to eat what you see
your party eat, you just made your willpower muscle stronger. In a sense it got a workout. The next time this temptation presents
itself, you will be stronger, and it will be easier to avoid the
temptations. However, just like the
cardiovascular system and muscular skeletal system the willpower system can get
burned out and over-worked, in rare cases.
So keep in mind that the occasional break you give your will could pay
off, making your willpower even stronger.
Look for opportunities to workout your willpower "muscle"
today!
