Seems to me that the “willpower depletion” happens when some part of a brain decides that continuing the work is no longer the best action. That can happen for various reasons, so the strategy to “replenish willpower” should reflect the specific reason. For example:
If you feel tired, hungry, or need to visit the bathroom—do what your body needs. (This assumes you are genuinely hungry, not merely using food as an excuse to avoid something unpleasant.)
If you feel uncertain whether you are progressing correctly—try to get some feedback. (Again, assuming that uncertainty is the real problem.)
If you feel lack of motivation—try to remind yourself, in near mode, why are you doing this.
Essentially, try solving the problem you actually have, instead of trying to find a universal solution for all kinds of problems. (Eating sugar is not a solution for depression; chanting motivational slogans is not a replacement for missing data.)
Seems to me that the “willpower depletion” happens when some part of a brain decides that continuing the work is no longer the best action. That can happen for various reasons, so the strategy to “replenish willpower” should reflect the specific reason. For example:
If you feel tired, hungry, or need to visit the bathroom—do what your body needs. (This assumes you are genuinely hungry, not merely using food as an excuse to avoid something unpleasant.)
If you feel uncertain whether you are progressing correctly—try to get some feedback. (Again, assuming that uncertainty is the real problem.)
If you feel lack of motivation—try to remind yourself, in near mode, why are you doing this.
Essentially, try solving the problem you actually have, instead of trying to find a universal solution for all kinds of problems. (Eating sugar is not a solution for depression; chanting motivational slogans is not a replacement for missing data.)