Wantpower versus Willpower

When it comes to making a change, relying on willpower is not your best bet.  Willpower expires quickly and behaves unreliably.  In contrast, wantpower can work harder and longer to set you up for success.  For example, willpower might get you past ordering dessert in a restaurant if you quickly get up and pay the check and leave.  However, if you sit at the table long enough while your friends order dessert, it will get harder and harder to resist as you watch them eating their sweets.  

To strengthen your wantpower muscles, first think of what the best version of yourself really cares about.  Do you really want to exercise before the day begins?  That sounds like it might be challenging if getting up early isn't your routine, but what if there was a reward for that behavior?  Let's say you get to buy coffee at Starbucks on the way home IF you get up early and work out.  All of a sudden that makes waking up early and exercising seem much more appealing.  It becomes a win/win.

Another way to work your "wantpower" muscles is to make one decision at the beginning of the day, and then carry that decision with you throughout day.  If you decide that you aren't having any treats today, then NO MATTER WHAT, if treats fall into your path, because you decided in advance you are not having them, you don't.  That one decision might save you from countless choices throughout the day--which makes your life feel easier and getting what you really want (more weight loss or self control) more likely.    

Protecting yourself from harm is another way to stay on track.  That means that you set up your environment to be successful.  You get the nutritious food in the house.  You leave the tempting food that challenges your control at the store.  You put your sneakers by the door.  You keep a water bottle with you and drink from it often.  Whatever it is--you stay focused by creating a safe space around you that practically delivers more success. That's the wantpower muscle at work again.  

Investing in your good health whether it is with food, exercise, mindset shifting, sleep or just de-stressing through happiness hobbies is always going to be important.  We do a little bit of the work every day in various ways.  It is not a punishment.  It is a pathway to more freedom in body and mind.  I definitely want more of that.