Insight: Behavioral scientists suggest that willpower is like a muscle that fatigues when used (making decisions, doing tasks), and is weaker when needed for other actions soon after.
Insight: Willpower is a finite resource during the day, using it physically fatigues us.
Principle: Do not rely on pure willpower.
Principle: Take the time to analyse your daily reserves.
Principle: Be strategic about when and where you use willpower.
Reference: Benjamin Franklin's favourite way to win over political opponents was to ask for small favours. He always followed it up with genuine gratitude.
Insight: When we do someone a favour we are likely to rationalise this by assuming we would not do a favour for someone we dislike.
Insight: Asking people for their help or a favour can lead to improved relationships or future help.
Principle: Ask people a favour. Better: ask for an opinion - it doesn't cost the person anything.
Principle: Follow up favours with gratitude.
Definition: The tendency to take things for granted.
Insight: Gratitude, and appreciating what we have does not come easy for humans.
Definition: Work expands so as to fill the time available for it's completion.
Insight: Parkinson's Law can be adapted to any project.
Principle: Challenge yourself by imposing deadlines.
