You often hear about willpower being the ability to control your impulses, a significant part of motivation and achieving results. But is willpower really the key to reaching your goals, or is there something more effective?
We spoke with Benjamin Hardy, author of “Willpower Doesn’t Work,” who shared insights about motivation and goal achievement. According to Hardy, although willpower is real and important, relying solely on it isn’t sustainable for long-term change.
Hardy’s life journey, much like others’, involved overcoming serious obstacles. He’s now a well-known writer in self-improvement, motivation, and entrepreneurship fields, and his perspectives offer a refreshing take on achieving success.
One key idea from Hardy’s work is that willpower alone isn’t enough because it requires immense energy and isn’t sustainable. Instead, Hardy suggests that our environment plays a more crucial role in shaping our success. Changing your environment can make success inevitable by eliminating the constant battles that willpower alone cannot win.
For instance, instead of forcing yourself to wake up for the gym, find a workout buddy who’s more advanced and can motivate you. This way, your success becomes part of the environment you’ve created.
At DIY Active, we emphasize accountability systems like workout partners, and Hardy agrees. He believes focusing on environmental design rather than sheer willpower is more effective and less draining. Whether it’s investing in new running shoes, sharing your progress on social media, signing up for a marathon, or eliminating environmental triggers, these steps can help you achieve your goals without relying solely on willpower.
Hardy explains that changing your environment outsources the conflict that comes with trying to overcome it. Instead of rationalizing why you aren’t achieving your goals, redesign your surroundings to remove those obstacles. For example, change your route to work to avoid temptations that hinder your progress.
Ultimately, no matter how much willpower you muster, if your environment remains unchanged, sustainable success will be difficult to achieve. The environment is often stronger than your internal resolve, so tailor it to support your objectives.
In summary, while willpower is real, focusing solely on it won’t yield the best results. As Hardy emphasizes, designing an environment that aligns with your goals can significantly enhance your chances of success. If you’re looking for more detailed guidance, check out Hardy’s book, “Willpower Doesn’t Work,” which offers a comprehensive strategy to transform your environment and achieve your goals.
