Good Life Project The Cutting-edge Science of Self-control (and What to Do About It) | Michael Inzlicht, PhD
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Dec 9, 2024 
In this engaging discussion, Michael Inzlicht, a Professor at the University of Toronto specializing in self-control, redefines our understanding of willpower. He dispels the myth of ego depletion and reveals how our beliefs and environment shape our self-regulation. Inzlicht shares innovative strategies for setting effective goals and transforming obligations into enjoyable activities. He emphasizes the importance of balancing effort with rest to sustain self-discipline, making personal growth both achievable and fulfilling.
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Ego Depletion Theory
- The ego-depletion theory, popular in the late 90s and early 2000s, suggests self-control is a finite resource.
- This theory states that using self-control for one task diminishes its availability for subsequent tasks.
Obama's Suit Choice
- Barack Obama's suit choice, always the same color, was attributed to ego depletion.
- He aimed to conserve mental energy for more critical decisions later in the day.
Challenging Ego Depletion
- Studies challenge ego depletion, suggesting self-control is influenced by perception and willingness.
- Factors like belief, social norms, and external rewards can impact self-control.
