The best thing I read this weekend was advice to flee temptation. If you're trying to quit doing something and you find yourself in the perfect environment to do that thing, run away!
Exercising willpower takes a lot more energy than simply running away!
Actually, it turns out that will power is one hell of a big deal, as this video by cogntive psychologist Roy Baumeister clearly demonstrates. It's a 23 min video, but do take the time to watch at least the first 1:30 for the gist.
ReplyDeleteAs Baumeister has extended his research, he has discovered that one of the hallmarks of high self control is avoiding situations that test our willpower.
Bu we knew that, didn't we:
I firmly intend with your help to do penance, to sin no more, and to avoid whatever leads me to sin.
Trigger, you're spot on. I was only kidding with the headline. I've spent a lot of time reading up on willpower.
ReplyDeleteI love the Act of Contrition quote. It's so weird to see all this evidence of prescience. It's almost like that whole God / Jesus thing is real!
...or use a hand grenade.
ReplyDeletewhichever.