This talk will highlight key psychological findings on the nature, function and enhancement of "self-control," the ability to resist temptations and distractions that interfere with one's long-term goals. The talk will identify the cognitive and motivational correlates of this ability, the obstacles that undermine it, and the best-known practices for overcoming those obstacles. It will also address how Ayn Rand's distinctive theory of free will interfaces with and clarifies this research.