Willpower and Self Control

Looking at a surprisingly high credit card balance, people wish for willpower. After eating that extra piece of cake, people wish for more willpower. After spending so much time on-line that work projects suffer, people wish for self-control.  There are many situations in our daily lives that would benefit from willpower and self-control.

There certainly are benefits to what we call willpower or self-control. Those who rate high get better grades in school have higher self-esteem, more financial stability, better and longer-lasting relationships, less substance abuse.  Psychology has been studying self-control for the last 25 years. Unfortunately, much of the information has not gotten out of the lab.

Today, what we know about self-control is growing. We know your willpower will decrease when you are tired of getting sick. How often have you gone home after a long day at work to eat more than you intended or spent the evening in front of the TV instead of paying bills? Improving self-control includes learning to plan for small energy bursts like a small, reasonable snack when you know you are tired.  Or planning your toughest tasks when you are most refreshed. Other things that help willpower are meditation, exercise, monitoring, and distraction strategies.

To learn more about willpower and self-control, contact Specialized Therapy Associates at 201-488-6678 or check our website at www.specializedtherapy.com