SPECIAL SECTION: NUTRITION & WELLBEING
HACK YOUR habits
Habit change and wellbeing expert Dr Gina Cleo on why willpower doesn’ t work when it comes to making healthier choices – and what you can do instead.
BY DR GINA CLEO
Willpower has long been hailed as the secret weapon for success – whether it’ s starting a gratitude practice, staying off social media, eating better or finally hitting the gym. But here’ s the problem: willpower is unreliable. It’ s like a muscle that tires out, a battery that drains and a strategy that sets you up for failure. So, if willpower doesn’ t work, what does?
The myth of willpower
For decades, willpower has been glorified as the key to self-discipline. The idea is simple: if you just try harder, you’ ll succeed. But research tells a different story. Studies reveal that willpower is a limited resource. Every decision you make throughout the day – whether it’ s choosing what to wear, navigating a challenging conversation or replying to emails – chips away at your self-control.
This explains why it’ s easier to exercise in the morning than in the evening. By the end of the day, your willpower reserves are depleted. If willpower alone worked, people wouldn’ t fall back into old habits or struggle to stick with resolutions. >
COSTCO CONNECTION JUL / AUG 2025 | 17