If you find yourself struggling with your commitment to exercising or to keeping a clean nutrition, don’t be too hard on yourself, according to neuroscientists having willpower is not a character flaw and it could all be down to the physical make up of the brain. Because the part of the brain called prefrontal cortex is the same part of the brain that records our working memory and is in charge of willpower, researchers showed that when the brain is overwhelmed with tasks willpower is very weak.

The solution , as I mention in my book, Mind Over Body: The Key To Lasting Weight Loss Is All In Your Head, is not hammering people with new habits but helping them bulk-up their willpower muscle by making them consciously aware of certain changes that need to take place before any physical habits are set in motion. In other words, you must outsmart the subconscious mind and make firm decisions to commit to your goals and be sure to keep your word with yourself. If you put exercising last on your daily “things to do”, you will fail! You will be so tired physically and emotionally that outsmarting your subconscious will be almost impossible. So make sure you make an appointment with yourself to exercise before work or in the middle of your day.

This article or post is not intended to provide individual advice, which should be obtained directly from your health care professional.

Author's Bio: 

Avtar, formerly known as Nordine Zouareg, is highly regarded as an internationally acclaimed speaker, motivational coach and #1 Best Selling Author in the field of mind-body health, spirituality and personal empowerment. Avtar has almost three decades of experience traveling the globe and working directly with clients to identify and change the negative patterns that are preventing them from attaining optimum health and wellness. His impressive collection of international titles, awards and recognition are a direct reflection of his ability to overcome immense personal struggles and emerge with great success.

In addition to his deep understanding of how the mind works to influence the body and his beliefs in the benefits of balancing the body, mind and spirit, Nordine is the author of the bestselling book, MIND OVER BODY: The Key To Lasting Weight Loss Is All In Your Head! He also holds a Master's Degree in Physical Education, several International Coaching Certifications, and he speaks five languages. Avtar's personal passions are his two children, his spirituality, exercise, reading, cooking, travel, and helping people around the world understand how to incorporate the mental, emotional, physical and spiritual aspects of being to create a successfully balanced and fulfilling life.