Jan. 29: Powering Up the Will

Our daily lives are full of temptations that tax our self-control and drain our willpower—forcing us, at times, to lash out or give in to bad choices.

According to Roy Baumeister, Ph.D., director of social psychology at Florida State University, willpower functions like a muscle.  It can be fatigued by overuse, but strengthened by some healthy habits to make you more productive, less stressed and happier.  Here are two tips from Baumeister.

▪ Play offense. People with strong self-control spend less time resisting and more time planning ahead—setting themselves up for success.

▪ Use the calm before it storms.  You can’t control or predict life’s surprise stresses but let the peaceful moments prepare you for difficult situations.  Don’t add to stressful times with more stress; use your willpower wisely.

In any moment, our will to do good can be strengthened with a prayerful appeal to God.

If any of you lacks wisdom, ask God, who gives to all generously.  (James 1:5)

I place my trust in You, Lord; You are my hope.