How to Learn a New Skill Without Relying on Willpower

How self-determination theory and habit formation unlock learning consistency.

Photo by Akram Huseyn on Unsplash

$700 on a Yamaha e-piano. $240 on Codecademy Pro. Hours practiced? Five. Lessons completed? Maybe six.

We often dive into new skills with enthusiasm, convinced that this time will be different. But then reality kicks in:

• The initial excitement fades
• Life gets in the way
• We tell ourselves, “I’ll get back to it later…”

Sound familiar?

I know because I’ve spent the last decade studying learning science, applying it to my own life, and helping thousands of people stay consistent. My work on learning has reached over 5 million readers, and I’ve given a TEDx talk on the topic and run 9 cohorts of a 9.7/10 rated writing course that applies the theory of learning science to practice.

The problem isn’t motivation — it’s how we approach learning. Most people burn out, get distracted, or lose momentum because they rely on sheer willpower instead of structuring learning for success.

Step 1: Why People Struggle to Stay Motivated