Willpower vs. Self-Discipline
First of all, willpower is b.s.
There are several views on willpower but essentially, it’s bull. It may have been once a viable mode of thought. However, it’s become tainted to the point where it’s been used as an excuse or even something bigger than themselves.
Some people view willpower as a force of energy that fluctuates. You have more willpower one time and then at other times you just don’t have it. It’s an in-the-moment feeling where you have to choose whether or not you have enough willpower to make the choice. And then when a tough choice comes around you’re more apt to make an excuse. Because let’s get real, it’s easier to make an excuse.
Take this example: You’re trying to lose weight. You’re keeping track of the number of sweets you consume as part of your nutrition plan. You’ve reached your max “allowed” amount of sweets for the day. You forgot to go grocery shopping so you don’t have any healthier options. You also had a crappy day at work so you’re already stressed out. And the final thing: you forgot about that box of cookies in your pantry...until you open the pantry looking for a snack.
Now, you could just ignore them. But instead, you say, “Hm, I just don’t have the willpower today. I think I’ll eat a couple of cookies even though I maxed my sweets for the day.”
Congratulations, you now have deemed “Willpower” as an excuse. Because you felt that your willpower level is low, you just couldn’t say “No” to those cookies.
Sometimes willpower is also used as an ominous force that other people have that you just can't seem to have. Like it's something out of reach so you just can't possibly picture yourself having it too.
The truth is, willpower is supposed to be the unseen strength BEFORE the moment of temptation. Unfortunately, it's turned into the examples above of excuse and mystical force.
True willpower is self-discipline. Self-discipline is calculable and happens before any moment of temptation because it's practiced. Self-discipline is continuously worked on and learned. You make mistakes along the way but you learn from those setbacks and move on. It's progress. It's learning to tolerate emotional discomfort.
Remember those core values I talked about last week? Self-discipline is part of maintaining your core value. During those moral dilemmas you're faced with uncomfortable choices but having self-discipline that has been practiced can help you bounce back from those issues. It doesn't matter how large or small the temptations become, with self-discipline you would be able to tackle them head-on.
Willpower and self-discipline is a common theme in weight loss. This is where you tell yourself: “I just don’t have the willpower to XYZ.” No, Susan. It’s because your goals aren’t clear, your why isn’t evident, and you aren’t ready to prioritize change. If you’re ready to take steps towards a change, start here. It’s free. It’s for you. It’s a clear step towards that self-discipline you need to lose the weight you want.
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