
Maximum Willpower

Anything that makes us feel warm and fuzzy about our virtue – even just thinking about doing something good – can license us to follow our impulses.
Kelly McGonigal • Maximum Willpower
you’re more likely to slack off in the afternoon if you made progress in the morning. Simply put: whenever we have conflicting desires, being good gives us permission to be a little bit bad.
Kelly McGonigal • Maximum Willpower
feeling good about our virtue is the fastest path to vice.
Kelly McGonigal • Maximum Willpower
“Fatigue should no longer be considered a physical event but rather a sensation or emotion.”
Kelly McGonigal • Maximum Willpower
When you’re trying to make a big change or transform an old habit, look for a small way to practise self-control that strengthens your willpower, but doesn’t overwhelm it completely.
Kelly McGonigal • Maximum Willpower
committing to any small, consistent act of self-control – improving your posture, squeezing a handgrip every day until your hand is exhausted, cutting back on sweets, and keeping track of your spending – can increase overall willpower.
Kelly McGonigal • Maximum Willpower
Most psychologists and nutritionists recommend a low-glycemic diet – that is, one that helps you keep your blood sugar steady. Low-glycemic foods include lean proteins, nuts and beans, high-fibre grains and cereals, and most fruits and vegetables – basically, food that is close to its natural state and doesn’t have a ton of added sugar, fat and che
... See moreKelly McGonigal • Maximum Willpower
giving participants a sugar boost turns them back into the best versions of themselves: more persistent and less impulsive; more thoughtful and less selfish.
Kelly McGonigal • Maximum Willpower
If you never seem to have the time and energy for your “I will” challenge, schedule it for when you have the most strength.