Perseverance: what the brain has to do with it

Reading time: 3 minutes

You start out full of enthusiasm - a new habit, a course, a fitness goal. But after a few weeks, you drop out. That says nothing about your character. Researchers believe the brain is constantly making a calculation: does this require too much energy, or is it worth the effort? The good news is that you can influence that calculation by taking small steps. In this blog, you’ll read what research says about this and how you can get started today.

What is perseverance?

Perseverance is the ability to keep going when things get difficult, even when the reward is still a long way off. Researchers refer to this as "tenacity" or steadfastness and persistence. In studies, it is often linked to better academic performance, greater career opportunities, and better health outcomes.

Note: these are associations. It does not mean that one causes the other.

Which part of the brain helps you persevere?

In this review article, a research team from Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital examines a small brain region: the anterior mid-cingulate cortex, or aMCC for short. Located in the center of the brain, it is connected to many other areas and receives signals regarding attention, movement, and bodily sensations.

The researchers propose that the aMCC uses these signals to predict the energy cost of a task. It then weighs that prediction against the potential payoff. This is a hypothesis; further research is needed.

What does research show?

According to the studies in the article:

• People with more ‘grit’ (passion and perseverance) often show different activity or connectivity in this area.
• Activity in the aMCC was linked to how willing people were to put in effort for a reward.
• Stronger connections with motor areas were associated with less apathy - meaning less of a lack of motivation to get started.

7 tips for sticking with it

1. Make your reward visible. The brain weighs effort against payoff. Write down why your goal matters and place it somewhere you’ll see it every day.
2. Keep the first step small. Less effort feels easier. Start with five minutes.
3. Stick to a routine. Having a set time saves you from making choices and thus saves energy.
4. Be mindful of your expectations. We don’t always assess effort and reward accurately.
5. Manage your energy levels. The article notes that the brain also takes your available energy into account. Sleep, rest, and regular meals can help. What works best for you is a personal matter.
6. Keep moving. Research cited in the article links perseverance to sticking with an exercise routine. One study involving older adults observed a potential increase in brain volume following regular aerobic exercise. Even a short walk counts.
7. Celebrate small wins and seek support. Every step provides your brain with new information. Share your progress with someone.

Frequently asked questions about perseverance

Can you train perseverance?

Researchers consider this an open question. However, small, repeated steps can help make it easier to keep going.

Why do I give up when I really want to succeed?

The brain may perceive the effort involved as greater than the reward. Make the step smaller or the reward clearer.

Is perseverance innate?

People differ, but the article offers no definitive answer. Habits and environment likely play a role as well.

What is the aMCC?

A brain region that integrates a wide range of signals. Researchers link it to effort and motivation.

Your next step

Choose one tip from this list and put it into practice this week. You can find more inspiration in the self-development blogs.

About Lifestyle Habits

Lifestyle Habits helps you with practical, accessible digital products in the areas of nutrition, self-development, and simple money management - like courses, ebooks, and step-by-step plans to turn small, conscious lifestyle habits into lasting change.

This article is based on The Tenacious Brain: How the Anterior Mid-Cingulate Contributes to Achieving Goals. It was written by the founder of Lifestyle Habits, drawing on years of practical experience and self-study in personal development, complemented by reliable sources and scientific research. Curious about who is behind Lifestyle Habits and what the brand stands for? Check out the webpage About Lifestyle Habits.

The content of Lifestyle Habits is intended solely for general, educational, and informative purposes and serves as inspiration. No personal (medical or psychological) advice is given, and no health claims are made. No rights can be derived from the content. If you have questions about your personal situation, health, or well-being, it's always wise to consult a recognized specialist.