Day

3: On Being a Human
Willpower is what separates us from the animals. It’s the capacity to
restrain our impulses, resist temptation — do what’s right and good for us in the
long run, not what we want to do right now. It’s central, in fact, to civilization.
—Roy Baumeister 3

Humans have the capacity to act against their urges in exchange for a better
future. Unfortunately, many people live by the principle of “if it feels good, do
it, and if it doesn’t, don’t do it.”
Caving in to your temptations whenever you feel them emerge is like
relinquishing your humanity, in a way. As an intelligent human being, you have
an ability — and I daresay an obligation — to make decisions that are based on
rational thinking, not on your instincts alone.
Strive to be a better human and embrace your humanity by exercising your
“willpower muscle,” instead of succumbing to your most primal (and least
helpful for your long-term goals) part of the brain. Your most primal instincts
may provide temporary comfort, but seldom are good for the long term, except
when there is a direct threat to your survival.