Willpower is the ability to control our impulses, actions, or emotions. Willpower is seen as a key factor in many other qualities, including determination, drive, resolve, and self-discipline. While many consider willpower an internal element of brute force and self-denial—the ability to tell ourselves “No!” loudly and long enough to endure temptation—the truth is it’s a skill that can be strengthened through self-compassion and the honoring of our desires and true longings. Neuroscience, mindfulness traditions, and psychological practices have all unlocked many reliable strategies to develop our willpower.
As a wheel turns smoothly, free from jars, my will and my desire were turned by love, The love that moves the sun and the other stars.
