You know those people untempted by the things that tempt us? They go to a party and don’t even notice that there’s cake on the table, while the rest of us are left drooling, trying to hold ourselves back from devouring the whole thing. Why is it that willpower is so difficult for some of us, and for others, it seems to come naturally? Do they simply have more willpower?
Well, first, let’s define “willpower.” Willpower is having the strength or resolve to carry out your own desires, plans, and goals; it’s the desire to make something happen – to ignore all obstacles, and just get it done.
Notice I did NOT mention anything about “ability” in this definition. Willpower has nothing to do with your circumstances. It has nothing to do with having the “right” genes, job, education, living in the right neighborhood, knowing the right people, etc. And this is good news! Because it means it’s simply a habit you can learn and master!
Here are five steps for developing the willpower you need to lose weight and maintain it.
5 Steps to Gain More Willpower
#1 – Clearly define what it is that you want.
Do you want to lose 10% body fat, five pounds, tone up? What is it you want to achieve and when do you want to achieve it by? Define this without ambiguity.
#2 – Research what it takes to get what you want.
What do you need to do to achieve this goal? What’s involved? If you don’t do some research and figure out what it takes, you’ll never know if you have the power, strength, and energy to follow through. You need a plan.
#3 – DECIDE.
Decide to make it happen. Once you have a goal and a plan, you simply have to decide that come hell and high water, you’re going to make it happen. Decide now you have the resolve to follow through.
#4 – Play offense.
The funny thing about people with willpower is the fact that they rarely have to exercise it! And this is because they simply don’t put themselves in those types of situations. Avoid situations that will tempt you, and if you can’t, have a plan in place so you’re on the offense, not the defense. For example, if you’re going to a party and are worried about overindulging, try having some protein beforehand to keep your belly full, so you’re not fighting off the treats. You’re prepared and have a plan of attack ahead of time.
#5 – Fix your boat before the storm hits.
You know the calm before the storm? Everything seems okay and under control, but you know in the near future your willpower will be challenged? For instance, you might feel okay about your weight now, but the holidays are approaching, and you’re worried about gaining the 10 pounds the average person puts on this time of year. Don’t wait until after the fact. Take care of it now; fix your boat before the storm. Get on a program that will help you with your health and fitness now, so you’re prepared.
Comment below if you KNOW you can do this!! Want more support? Visit the 131 Method!
Lana says
This is a great article….Ever since I was a teenager loosing weight for the first time, i remember having willpower! It just seems like it has always been there for me. My journey with willpower pertaining to weight loss has always just been there and I am thankful, I have been struggling with an injury for months now and am still finding workouts I can addapt and do until I heal 🙂 I always appreciate your articles.
Rick Petry says
Chalene, I couldn’t agree more with the points you make in this article. This is a message that I hope all of your readers will take to heart, and I hope they realize you are speaking from your heart. You presented today at Jeff Walker’s Product Launch Live event, and inspired a room of 600 people to take action to pursue their passions. Thank you for all you have done and for all the good I know you will do in the future. You rock Girl!!!
admin says
Thanks Rick!!
evangelia says
Very helpful article. Willpower is something that I am fighting to have… It’s like a battle between me and myself. I know I can do it and you gave me some good advice in order to manage throughout difficult situations.
Alexandra says
I LOVED the article! It’s so true… I’ve had problems with food all of my life and a few years ago, I realized that it wasn’t fod ingeneral but mostly concentrated around chocolat and ice cream and decided to cut it out of my life. It took about 2 weeks of making a conscious decision NOT to cave in and after that period, the habit was in and it became easier. Now it’s been over 3.5 years and it’s still hard sometimes, but I remind myself what’s good for me and what my goals are!
Now, I’m trying to gain the habit of working out daily. It’s been 3.5 weeks and some mornings it’s hard to be motivated, some mornings I’m looking forward to it, but I’m sticking to it!
Thanks Chalene!
Gretchen McLain says
Thank you for this! I needed to read it today. Your articles are so well placed in my journey!