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How to Increase Your Willpower & Tenacity

Huberman Lab

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Sympathetic and Parasympathetic Aspects of the Autonomic Nervous System

The sympathetic aspect of the autonomic nervous system is responsible for alertness, panic, calmness, movements, and resistance to movements. It is not only about action but also about inaction that requires energy. On the other hand, the parasympathetic aspect is responsible for relaxation, falling asleep, and quiescent states. The two aspects are in a push-pull relationship, balancing alertness and sleepiness. Willpower and tenacity are influenced by the autonomic function, particularly by the quality of sleep. Sufficient sleep enhances willpower and resistance to default behaviors, while inadequate sleep diminishes these abilities.

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