Do you tend to cave in to momentary temptations and impulses that derail your goals? Whether it’s splurging on an expensive meal, putting off that big work project, or hitting snooze instead of the gym, lapses in self-discipline are common. The good news is that adopting a money mindset can actually boost your willpower and self-control, according to intriguing new research.

The Depleting Effect of Self-Control

Many studies show that self-control relies on a limited inner resource. Resisting temptation, focusing, and making difficult choices draw upon our reserve of willpower. When those acts of self-discipline deplete the resource, our subsequent self-control tends to falter – a phenomenon called ego depletion.

For example, people who had to resist candy or control their emotions earlier on were later more likely to give up quickly on a frustrating task. Willpower gets worn down with use. But what if we could counteract this draining effect and replenish our self-control tank?

The Power of Financial Thinking

Exciting new research reveals that simply activating the concept of money in your mind can buffer against ego depletion! In two experiments by Boucher and Kofos, participants who completed an initial self-control task were then reminded of money or neutral concepts. Those exposed to money cues, like images or word puzzles related to finances, performed better on a subsequent self-control challenge.

Their willpower remained higher after the money priming. This effect occurred both for physical stamina tasks like holding a weight and cognitive tasks like solving problems. Money reminders seemed to counteract the normal depletion of self-control resources.

How Money Boosts Self-Discipline

Additional analyses shed light on just how money strengthens willpower. Participants reported that self-control tasks felt subjectively less difficult and required less effort after being exposed to financial cues. Thinking about money appears to produce feelings of power, efficacy, and confidence that translate into greater perseverance.

Money implicitly signals access to resources and freedom. When your mindset centers on abundance and strength, rather than lack and limitations, your self-discipline flows more effortlessly. You believe that you have what it takes to override impulses and persist toward goals.

Applications: Strengthen Your Self-Control

You can harness money’s motivating power in your own life. When you feel your willpower lagging, refresh your mind with financial cues:

• Display money-related images prominently in your home and office
• Handle cash and coins intentionally, noticing their weight and textures
• Visualize wealth and financial success in your mind’s eye
• Repeat empowering money affirmations like “I have everything I need”

During demanding times when you need discipline, proactively surround yourself with monetary reminders. For instance, keep a special coin in your pocket while studying to maintain mental stamina and focus. Or view a savings account balance app right before tackling a challenging workout.

Activating thoughts of prosperity and abundance will give your self-control an extra boost. Money is metaphorically linked to power, freedom, and mastery – all feelings that enlarge your perceived capacity. By tapping into this mental association with financial concepts, you can energize your willpower and achieve anything!

Cultivate a Prosperity Mindset

In addition to using money techniques as tactical self-control tools, nurture an ongoing prosperity mindset. When you believe deep down that you live in an abundant universe with unlimited potential, you operate from a foundation of inner strength.

Practice gratitude for all the financial blessings you already have – from material comforts you can afford to skills that earn you money. Send blessings to others rather than envying their success. Visualize your brightest financial futures unfolding.

This steady money mindfulness reduces self-doubt, scarcity fears, and perceived limitations. You can better pursue your goals with self-assured willpower and determination. Financial wellbeing creates a secure base for reaching your full potential.

Balance Money and Meaning

Avoid overemphasizing money as the sole path to power and happiness, though. True prosperity incorporates purpose, service, ethics, and love. Keep wealth in perspective as one aspect of health. Foster interpersonal bonds and community. Contribute time and resources to causes bigger than yourself. Appreciate nature’s simple joys.

Money can energize but not replace holistic self-care. Take balanced actions that express your core values. Self-control guided by meaning is deeply fulfilling.

The next time willpower wanes, tap into monetary thinking to fuel motivation and personal growth. Remember the sense of empowerment, freedom, strength, and possibility that money represents – and boldly pursue your dreams!