We know we should get up to exercise regularly, but our beds can be so warm and cozy.
We know we should order a salad, but the steak frites on the menu look so good.
We know we should read more, but there's so much great content on Netflix.
We know we should limit our screen time, but our screens are so much fun!
The list goes on.
We usually know which choices are best for us, we just don't always make them.
Apparently, there's a word for that.
Akrasia is an ancient Greek word meaning, "a lack of self-control or the state of acting against one's better judgment."
Why don't we always make the best choices for ourselves? There are lots of reasons. A lack of willpower. An often overwhelming preference for immediate pleasure, even at the expense of a greater future benefit. Sometimes, sheer laziness.
But imagine what we might collectively achieve if we were all a little less akractic.
Knowing the theory is good, but putting it to work is better.
P.S. Hat-tip to David Perell, who introduced me to this term via his tweet.
P.P.S. If you're not a fan of Lucifer (and I mean the show, not the archangel), the image I chose to use for this post might be puzzling. But if you're curious...