• How to build will power

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    Building willpower involves engaging in activities that challenge your desire to act or refrain from acting, which can activate the anterior mid cingulate cortex in the brain. This area is crucial for developing tenacity and willpower. Here are some strategies highlighted by :

    1. Engage in Micro-Challenges: Implement small challenges, like extending fasting periods or adding extra exercises at the end of a workout. These "micro sucks" push you to do something slightly uncomfortable, which can build your endurance and self-control over time 1 2.

    2. Incorporate Physical Challenges: Activities like deliberate cold exposure or intensive cardiovascular exercises can enhance both physical and mental resilience. Huberman points out that such tasks not only benefit physical health but also reinforce willpower as they require significant mental effort to overcome resistance 2 1.

    3. Change Cognitive and Emotional Habits: Engaging in new cognitive tasks, like learning a language or a musical instrument, also builds willpower. These tasks are demanding both mentally and emotionally, offering substantial benefits in strengthening your willpower 3.

    4. Balance and Safety: It's important to avoid overextending into unhealthy extremes. Ensure that the challenges you take on are within a safe and manageable limit to avoid negative psychological or physical effects 1.

    5. Utilize Physical Activity: Regular physical exercises, especially those requiring mental persistence, like jumping jacks or qualifying exams in academics, can foster willpower by forcing you to push past your perceived limits 2.

    By regularly incorporating these practices, you can build both willpower and tenacity, potentially enhancing your overall cognitive and physical health 4 5.

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