Willpower, by definition, is “energetic determination.” It is determination to complete the task at hand or the long-term goal you so desperately strive for. I have often heard the phrase “I wish I had the willpower but I just don’t” about many health-related goals. To me, this is a choice. Saying willpower is something we just aren’t capable of is a whole lot easier than doing the hard work to reach our goals. Writing off our own ability to be strong in this way, though, is a hit on our mental health and prevents us from finding true wellbeing.

I believe we all have the ability to tap into willpower, we just have to choose not to take the easy road out when challenges arise. If you’re not happy with your current situation, whatever it may be, make the choice to change it for the better. Here are some things to help keep you motivated in the right direction for whatever the task may be.

1. Envision it. See yourself completing the task and imagine how you will feel when you accomplish it.
2. Recruit a friend. If it’s a task that you would benefit from having support in, grab a friend and help each other stay on track.
3. Reward yourself. Just like potty training children, give yourself little checks along the way with the ability to cash out at the end with a reward, whether it be new clothes, a trip, concert, or even just something small that will make you happy and not undo whatever hard work you just accomplished.
4. Set a pace. Make sure whatever you’re accomplishing is healthy for the mind, body, and soul and does not over stress you to the point of giving up.
5. Meditate on it.  Weather Whether it’s religious, or spiritual, or contemplative, you spend a few minutes a day meditating and thinking about why you are doing this. What are the reasons and what is the outcome? Think of your motivations and don’t give up.

Everyone has set backs and bad days. It’s part of being human. But it’s how we deal with these situations that make us stronger people.  Do we choose to get up the next day and resume accomplishing our task, or do we make the choice to give up? I choose to have the willpower to get back up and try again, what will you choose?