In 1998, psychologists found evidence of a tantalizing theory: We all have a finite mental store of energy for self-control and decision-making. Resisting temptations, or making tough decisions, saps this energy over time.
Willpower is like a muscle, the argument goes. When it's tired, we're less focused; we give in to temptation and make shoddy decisions that hurt us later. The original 1998 experiment used chocolate chip cookies, radishes, and an impossible quiz to elegantly illustrate this. Participants who were told to eat radishes and resist cookies gave up on the quiz faster that the people who were allowed to eat the cookies.
Over the years, the theory has been tested in hundreds of peer-reviewed studies, with countless stand-ins for the chocolate, radishes, and the quiz. Scientists have shown how diminished willpower can affect our ability to hold on to a handgrip, sap our motivation to help another in need, and even negatively impact athletic performance.
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