The Paradox of Self-Control

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The most important part of what our brain does is often to just make us feel good. We have two IDs in our heads or actions and our IDs are not congruent with each other. When system one and system two want something different, that creates cognitive dissonance. The human brain deviates from the level of computers and perfectly rational machines where we are very flexible in how we deal with it.

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What is willpower, really? What are the differences among willpower, self-control, self-discipline, and other related concepts? What are the best ways to become more self-disciplined? What are the differences between enthusiasm and motivation? What are the most effective motivators? What are fixed, performance, and growth mindsets? It's possible to work too hard and thus degrade our productivity; but is it possible to be too productive? What does it really mean to "work"? Why are there so many competing kinds of diet advice? What are the best ways of dealing with cravings? Are there physical, non-psychological correlates for cravings? What are some of the most common or worst mistakes people make with diet and exercise?

Menno Henselmans is a former business consultant turned international public speaker, scientific researcher, and educator. His works have been published in over a dozen languages, and his website was ranked the #1 fitness website by The Huffington Post. He recently published the bestselling book The Science of Self-control: 53 tips to stick to your diet, be more productive and excel in life.

Staff