Did you know that willpower is not a personality trait, skill or virtue, but operates like a muscle? Like muscle, it can be made stronger, but it also, like muscle, is easily exhausted, according to Roy F. Baumeister, PhD, a researcher at Florida State University.
Researchers found that our minds and bodies draw from the same source–glucose. Just as the brain and body use up glucose to perform tasks, so does exercising willpower. Just the act of choosing carrots when you could have had chocolate chip cookies uses glucose. Is the solution to give ourselves some sugar when we need to exert willpower? Not smart–but by choosing foods that keep blood glucose levels stable such as fresh fruits and vegetables, lean meats and whole grains rather than foods with white flour and sugar, you will, not only feel full longer, but will actually strengthen your willpower.
Just as our muscles get fatigued, so does willpower. Exerting willpower in one area will mean you have less for another. That’s why when you’re going through hard time or are under stress, you crave comfort food and don’t want to exercise. It’s good to aim for progress and not perfection and to make small changes that are sustainable so you do not exhaust willpower. In this way also the willpower “muscle” gets strengthened.
What can restore lost willpower? Researchers found that getting a good night’s sleep, laughing, and rewards all boost willpower. This is one reason Body for Life author Bill Phillips advocates a one day a week break from your optimal diet. Since willpower is limited, it’s important to set priorities and use it for what matters. Planning ahead, as Kaitlyn learned, actually bypasses willpower. You don’t have to think about what you’re going to do.
It’s good to know that willpower is not “all in the mind,” but part of the mind-body connection and needs rest, a healthy diet and a supply of positive experiences to grow stronger.
-Steve
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