It seems, to me at least, that the science is quite clear on will power.
Will power is a finite resource, something that we only have so much of and when it is used up we can no longer sustain the changes to behavior we seek when we see out on a will power "work out".
The finite will power problem is also compounded by the interruption problem, we now allow ourselves to be interrupted on such regular frequency that our ability to concentrate on important projects or tasks is considerably reduced.
Depressing...especially at the time of year, especially today, when we set ourselves the goals of becoming better people in one way or another.
The secret to success in New Years resolutions or any other type of personal improvement exercise is 2 fold it seems.
Firstly,
Limit the project. Change one thing at a time, two at the most to allow you to concentrate on that thing for a longer period using you finite will power resources most effectively.
Secondly,
Concentrate on the limited project until you turn it into a habit change.
"I don't smoke anymore"
I don't drink any alcohol during the week...ever"
"I will exercise 3 x weekly"
"I will ride 130 miles every week"
Moving life out of the way to create space to be the person you want is the only way and thinking you can affect changes of any consequence in your life without the space is mental.
For most of us it's the creation of the space to allow the changes to take affect and become habits that is the hardest part.
Don't be too hard on yourself....nobody gets it right, they just say they do on social media, my friend and coach Chris wrote about this beautifully in 2010, you can get it on kindle here.
Enjoy your Hogmanay.
I will be in bed by 10.30, sober and looking forward to riding my bike again tomorrow. For me it's much more about protecting the days than kicking the arse out of the nights.
If you have are thinking of your resolutions perhaps consider breaking them into quarters and do the first up until March until it has stuck and then go to the next.
Happy new year.
(Lang may yer lumb reek)
Blog Post Number: 1173