WILLPOWER...Can We Strengthen It?

The Healthy Weigh has started their 16th Team Challenge. For the next ten weeks we'll be focusing on WILLPOWER! As I've studied the subject recently, I'm convinced that willpower can be strengthened. I wouldn't be spending 10 weeks talking about it if I didn't think so. We're going to be looking at how self-control works, why it matters, and what we can do to get more of it.

Our levels of personal willpower distinguishes us from each other. We've all been born with the capacity for willpower, some of us just use it more than others.  Studies show that people who have more willpower/self control, have better control of their attention, emotions and actions. They are happier and healthier. Their relationships are more satisfying and last longer. They make more money and go further in their careers.
They are better able to manage stress, deal with conflict, and overcome adversity. They even live longer.

When pit against other virtues, willpower comes out on top. Self control is a better predictor of academic success than intelligence, a stronger determinant of effective leadership than charisma, and more important for marital bliss than empathy. Bottom line...if we want to improve our lives, willpower is not a bad place to start.

We are going to be taking a closer look at science and our brains regarding willpower. Neurobiologists as well as psychologists have much to say about the subject. Understanding the science of willpower will give us strategies for developing self-control and greater strength to pursue what matter most to us.

Next week I'll be focusing on the three powers that make up willpower. Will Power, Won't Power and Want Power!  Stay tuned for more about willpower!

Always encouraging you,
Letha