Willpower

Rediscovering the Greatest Human Strength

By: Roy F. Baumeister, John Tierney

Narrated by: Denis O'Hare

Length: 9 hrs and 6 mins

Publisher's summary

One of the world's most esteemed and influential psychologists, Roy F. Baumeister, teams with New York Times science writer John Tierney to reveal the secrets of self-control and how to master it.

Pioneering research psychologist Roy F. Baumeister collaborates with New York Times science writer John Tierney to revolutionize our understanding of the most coveted human virtue: self-control. Drawing on cutting-edge research and the wisdom of real-life experts, Willpower shares lessons on how to focus our strength, resist temptation, and redirect our lives. It shows listeners how to be realistic when setting goals, monitor their progress, and how to keep faith when they falter. By blending practical wisdom with the best of recent research science, Willpower makes it clear that whatever we seek - from happiness to good health to financial security - we won’t reach our goals without first learning to harness self-control.

©2011 Roy F. Baumeister (P)2019 Penguin Audio

Critic reviews

"The psychologist Roy F. Baumeister has shown that the force metaphor has a kernel of neurobiological reality. In Willpower, he has teamed up with the irreverent New York Times science columnist John Tierney to explain this ingenious research and show how it can enhance our lives.... Willpower is an immensely rewarding book, filled with ingenious research, wise advice and insightful reflections on the human condition." (Steven Pinker, The New York Times Book Review)

"An accessible, empirically grounded guide to willpower and how best to deploy it to overcome temptation." (The Wall Street Journal)

"Willpower is sure to inspire further groundbreaking research into the mechanics of willpower. One implication is already apparent. Since repeated behaviors eventually turn into habits, improving willpower long term requires a unique strategy - a habit of changing habits, of continually expanding our zones of comfort. One such practice, it seems, is the 'routine' of learning. That's a habit that this brilliant book will certainly nourish." (The Daily Beast)

very good and scientific

very good and scientific. useful information and it gives historical accounts which help me remember the details.

Examples

Definitely can help improve willpower. Research examples highlight what the writer is trying to get across

Really solid and enlightening book

It has changed the way I percieve will power, and modern life. Instead of seeing will power (and the lack of it) as a question of guilt and character defects, it shows a nuanced picture with lots of surprising facts

this book proves that willpower is not the key

Our willpower is completely plastic and adapts itself to our core deeply held beliefs. By acknoedging our weak nature we give ourselves a fighting chance to make small and focused changes, one at a time successfully.
Interesting book with many perspectives that can resonate with you.
Gemma

Awesome Book

The wisdom and principles set out in this book should be part of the standard curriculum of schools around the world and MUST be part of a compulsory university program for ALL undergraduate students.

Do yourself a favour! Read the book, then re-read the book and turn this knowledge into a common practice of your everyday life.

loved

loved this book. had a positive influence on my life well before I finished it.

Motivation for Daily Discipline

Clear explanation of vast amounts of research. Great examples of how will power is discovered, cultivated and put into daily practice. I gained many helpful tips and insights on how I might change my daily behavior by acknowledging and strengthening my own will power.

A Wonderful Source of Information

It’s always nice to learn why you may do the things you do. This book was a great listen and brimming with useful information.

Fantastic Content Applicable to Everyone

This book itself is not exciting; however, the positive effect that this information can have on your life is cause for excitement. Baumeister explains how every day we have a limited amount of willpower and gives us tips and tricks to make the most of it, along with how to strengthen willpower over time. This book has helped and will continue to help me make the most of my willpower as I implement recommended practices into my life.

Great Read

Some of this was a little dry and technical but very informative and really made me think. Great job!