What is Willpower?

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!