Why relying on self control doesn't work

Hey,

Here's...

Something to think on in your week:

People who are better at "self-control" often actually enjoy the activities some of us resist — like eating healthy, studying, or exercising. They're often not engaging in self control at all. Their healthy habits don't feel like "have to" goals, they don't feel boring or uninteresting - rather, they feel engaging and enjoyable. - Source: Vox Why willpower is overrated

A quote to support your thinking:

• “Relying on willpower alone to accomplish goals is almost like relying on emergency brake when you are driving your car. You should focus on things that drive you toward your goals rather than stopping things that are in your way. What’s more, the human “emergency brake” that is willpower is bound to fail in some instances, causing you to crash." - Blair Saunders

Action steps to consider:

If you have a goal that feels like a "have to" goal:

Journal to widen your frame

Imagine that the option you're currently leaning towards to get to the end "goal" (e.g. running every day to get to the end goal of feeling more energetic in your days) is no longer an option. What's an alternative approach? Brainstorm on paper as many ideas as possible until you reach one that's more appealing.

Find novelty in the mundane

Ian Bogost is an expert in fun. In his studies, he's found that play doesn't necessarily have to be pleasurable - and it can be part of any difficult task. “Fun is the aftermath of deliberately manipulating a familiar situation in a new way,” Bogost says. To make something mundane, difficult or currently unenjoyable more fun:

• Pay close, foolish, even absurd attention to things
• Focus on finding the optimal way of doing things as a way to make a task more fun
• Operate under constraints and limitations so that you have to get creative with your goal

Appreciate you,

Michelle

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