Willpower: Rediscovering the Greatest Human StrengthBy Roy F. Baumeister
Penguin Press, 2011. 291 pgs. Nonfiction
What is willpower? Can it be depleted? Can it be strengthened and how? Roy F. Baumeister, a pioneering research psychologist answers all of these questions while citing numerous scientific studies. The results of these experiments reveal that there is indeed a finite source of the mental energy known as willpower that covers not only self-control but decision making as well. When people resist the temptation to eat the goodies right in front of them, keep themselves from browsing Facebook instead of working, or spend the day deciding what to buy on a shopping trip, they are less able to resist other temptations later.
The good news is that this book explains specific techniques you can use to increase your pool of willpower, strengthen the willpower you already have, and trick yourself into conserving your willpower for when you really need it.
I found this to be a fascinating read. The writing and scientific descriptions are interesting and easy to understand. I had several “Ah-ha” moments where I felt like I really learned something about why I do things the way I do. I highly recommend reading this book for yourself and to better understand the human psyche in general.
AJ
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