I think I can, I think I can..

I've been doing a lot of research on WILLPOWER lately. Sometimes it feels like I don't have any! Some days I succumb to all the temptations around me. Well, I'll be fair to myself, I don't really eat ALL the things I sometimes want to, but I have had moments of mishap.

Here's a list of ways to increase willpower that I am finding helpful during this journey:
*NOTE: these are in no way, shape, or form the RIGHT things to do, they are just some things that might be helpful methods of strengthening your willpower muscle...

-anticipate roadblocks and plan for these problems
-eliminate negative influences
-avoid temptations whenever you can
-make small, manageable goals and remind yourself constantly how important these goals are to you
-set up a rewards system for yourself for achieving even the most minute goals (but FOOD IS NOT A REWARD!)
-commit to your goals verbally to as many people as you can--it helps you stay accountable
-use keywords and little phrases to keep you motivated and working toward your goal--say them over and over in your head when you are feeling weak
-just as we utilize rewards when we do something good, remember that there are consequences when you make negative choices--for me, I tack on extra workout hours, but not as a punishment, just as a consequence for not sticking to my plan
-be kind to yourself, and don't just give it all up because you ate poorly one day, or didn't exercise enough one week--it takes time to get where you want to be!!

Okay, so I'm still working on ALL of those (errr, especially that last one about not beating yourself up!), but I'm getting there.