Fortunately, through the same research, scientists have learned that some people enjoy better success at self-control than others (and, guess what, it isn’t down to their genes – see our Pep bashing the addictive personality theory).
They discovered two insights:
Firstly, people demonstrate better self-control when they have something better or more enjoyable to do. In other words, it’s not always enough that people are fed-up with feeling unhealthy; it’s also that they have found something they enjoy more. In other words, simply avoiding something is nowhere near as influential as having something better to do. Imagining a better future isn’t wishful thinking – it’s vital to our success – and having clear intentions for the life we want in the future gives us something to focus on as we navigate the challenges of the here and now.
Secondly, people who do well in self-control change the environment around them to avoid the need for willpower by actively keeping themselves away from harm. So if an emergency requires willpower, they find plenty of energy in reserve. With this in mind, maybe it’s easier or quicker to change the world we inhabit rather than change ourselves. If you know a place, a time or a person who makes it hard for you to stay on track, it’s OK to avoid them, particularly during the early days.