Wouldn’t it be great if every time temptation came along you had the willpower to turn and walk in the opposite direction?
Self-control is a valuable commodity. Being able to resist temptation and exercise power over our will has an impact on our physical health, our relationships, our financial status, and our ability to live law-abiding lives.
What is it?
At the core of willpower is the ability to resist something that might bring immediate satisfaction or pleasure in order to reap the benefits long-term. It’s willpower that helps you say no to the bar of chocolate in the cupboard because you want lose a couple of kilos. Self-discipline will also keep you committed to your studies or your relationship when the going gets tough and keeping going requires a bit more effort.
Flex your muscles
Willpower is often compared to a muscle. The more you use it, the more exercise you give it, the stronger it becomes. It’s also important to bear in mind that like a muscle it can also be tired out through extended use. When trying to resist something that you know is not good for you or will rob you of future rewards, it’s important to not over-work your self-discipline. Don’t remain in a place where you are constantly being called upon to resist temptation – put distance between yourself and temptation and build up your resistance over time. Giving yourself a break will strengthen your control, whereas constant temptation will tire you out and break your resolve.
Keep the end goal in sight
To be most effective, willpower needs a goal. Whatever you are trying to achieve, whether it’s a change in habits, like healthy eating or exercise, or keeping a better control on your spending, it’s important to remember the “why” behind your decision to bring about change. If the ultimate goal is a long way off, it can be helpful to put in place mini rewards to keep you motivated along the way.
Stay strong
It’s harder to remain committed and keep your willpower strong if you aren’t looking after yourself. Lack of sleep will diminish your ability to stick to your decisions. It’s interesting to note that resisting temptation requires energy and therefore causes our blood sugar levels to drop, which in turn causes our willpower to weaken. Eating regularly, getting enough sleep, and generally keeping physically strong will strengthen your self-control.
Helping hand
Resisting temptation can be an ongoing battle. Many times when we attempt to change our behaviour and resist things that seem attractive we can easily fail and give in to our desires. The Bible tells us that the virtue of self-control is a by-product, or fruit, of God’s Spirit. Where we may struggle to overcome things that entice and seduce us, when we ask God to help us and surrender our will to His, He can be the strength we need to walk away when temptation is at its strongest. In the New Testament the Apostle Paul wrote that anyone who has a relationship with Jesus is given a fresh start and things from their old way of life are replaced by a new way of living. If our will fails, our relationship with Jesus should be the strength we draw upon to in our times of weakness.