Here is how I maximize my willpower – I use it sparingly.
I don’t touch alcohol because if I start liking it, I will have to fight a battle within myself to moderate it. So I avoid the battle altogether.
If I have ice cream in the fridge, chances are, I will end up eating it. So if I want to cut down on unhealthy food, the best place to do that is in the supermarket – buy in moderation or don’t buy it at all.
Since I want to work out regularly, I have made it a non-negotiable habit. Even on the worst possible day, when I am feeling anxious or not so happy, I will mechanically make my way to the gym and get started.
By the way, I am not suggesting that you stop drinking or stop eating ice cream – in moderation, all these things are fine.
All I am saying is that the less you have to use your willpower, the better it is. So instead of fighting willpower battles, be clever about it – shape your environment, build habits, and avoid the temptation in the first place.
Hacking your environment and building habits is way easier than using your willpower.
– Rajan