We think we need greater self-control to be happier. But a new study suggests the arrow of causation points the other way.

Self-control, the ability to override or change internal impulses for the benefit of longer-term, strategic goals, has always been treasured as an admirable human trait. For example, Confucius taught ...

Highlighting summer's enhanced opportunities for healthy behavior has become a tradition for this column. In keeping with tradition, here is my annual installment – one that zeroes in on the core ...

Having high self-control is often seen as a good thing. It’s believed to be key to success in many aspects of life—whether that’s getting a promotion at work, sticking to your workout regime, or ...

This is part four of a five-part series. Leaders routinely repress or defer their own needs, desires, goals, or emotions in service of others, which is called self-control. While many leaders are ...

Neuroticism may moderate the relationship between certain personality traits and self-control, and the interaction effects appear to differ by the type of self-control, according to a new study.

It’s probably all too familiar. Against your best intentions, you find yourself reaching for a late-night snack again. You snap at a colleague who didn’t really say anything wrong. You find excuses so ...

Losing weight is extremely difficult because high-calorie, delicious food is very accessible. Despite best intentions, it’s common to wind up overeating. These setbacks can be frustrating and ...