ABSTRACT
The chapter outlines evidence-based principles and practices that can help physicians become better partners in their patients’ journey to change behaviors that can improve health and well-being in service of living more joyful and fulfilling lives. It deals with a brief review of self-determination theory (SDT) and the science of self-regulation, or willpower, to help improve understanding of the nature of motivation and the fundamental human needs that fuel it. SDT is one of the most thoroughly researched psychological theories of motivation with clear relevance for the practice of lifestyle medicine. The chapter examines the importance of attending to the human factors present in the doctor–patient encounte, and discusses the healing properties of authentic listening, building relationships, and deepening connections. It focuses on psychological influences such as motivation and willpower and recognizes the unique position of physicians to enhance patients’ motivation to change.
