Big things can happen when something really matters to us

Reaching big goals usually requires making big changes. Changing behaviour, learning new skills, overcoming personal limitations, all take consciousness, time and willpower. As habits are powerful forces, we may change them but not lightly. Therefore, we have to have a very good reason to change but we need even better reasons to maintain these new habits through adversity.

Willpower works like a muscle. It strengthens with use over time, but it also takes energy. When our reserves deplete, through fatigue, hunger or overuse, willpower can weaken.

Big things can happen when something matters to us. When something really matters enough to us, we can do it, even when we’re worn out. If there is something you have to complete but you are having trouble to go this extra mile to see it through, think about why you are doing it. If you can find the meaning, you can find the motivation. And then you will have the strength to do it.

Human beings are resilient, and we have backup systems. We are made for adversity. Part of our resilience comes from that reserve tank we draw from when we need it. But it all comes back to whether or not we care. What matters to you may not matter to anybody else. What makes all the difference is that whatever it is, it matters enough to you.

Sven Franssen