Where there’s a way, there’s a will

This article describes some very interesting studies that tested the willpower of both children and adult participants, including a recent follow-up study to a 1967 study done at Stanford. This new study's co-author, Dr. B.J. Casey from Weill Cornell Medical School, says, "This is the first time that we have located the specific area [of the brain] related to delayed gratification." This and other studies have shown that resisting temptation is largely genetic- but there are ways to strengthen willpower. One thing to keep in mind- and studies have shown this- is that glucose is very much needed in order to give a person enough energy to exhert their willpower. Roy Baumeister, co-author of Willpower: Rediscovering  the Greatest Human Strength, says, "In order not to eat, a dieter needs willpower.  In order to have willpower, a dieter needs to eat"… "Instead of squandering your willpower on a strict diet, eat enough glucose to conserve willpower." The article lists other factors that affect willpower, and explains how lack of sleep can affect willpower as well as decision-making.

The New York Post, 10/30/2011