The dual motive model posits that self-control is the prioritization of distal motives over proximal motives when the two compete. A logical extension of this view is that any factor that increases the incentive value of a distal motive or decreases the incentive value of a proximal motive will make self-control more likely. Here it is proposed that time perspective, or an individual’s tendency to attend to thoughts of the past, present, or future, is one factor that influences the incentive value of competing motives. Three studies were conducted to show that time perspective influences the incentive value of competing motives, and thus influences self-control. Study 1 probes correlations and indirect effects between time perspective, incentive value, and self-control. Study 2 replicates and extends study 1 by examining additional dimensions of the future time perspective. Study 3 shows that manipulating time perspective produces changes in self-control, establishing causality. The results suggest that time perspective influences the incentive value of individuals’ motives and thus self-control. The results also add support to the dual motive model of self-control, since only the dual motive model predicted these relationships.

One of the most important skills that humans possess is the ability to identify long-term goals and regulate behavior in the present to accomplish them. Due to its important role in guiding human behavior, much research has focused on the nature of self-control (Ainslie, 1975; Bandura, 1991; Mischel, 1996; Muraven & Baumeister, 2000). In this article it will be proposed that time perspective (Zimbardo & Boyd, 1999) – the way an individual attends to the past, present, and future – is a factor that plays an important role in determining self-control outcomes. More specifically, it is proposed that time perspective influences the incentive value of short-term and long-term goals, thus influencing self-control. Importantly, this research also helps to differentiate the dual motive model from other models of self-control, such as the strength model (Baumeister, Vohs, & Tice, 2007). Under the strength model, which views self-control as synonymous with response inhibition, it is not clear that self-control should bear any relationship with time perspective since it is conceivable that individuals with past, present, and future time perspectives could all be equally adept at suppressing impulses. Only the dual motive model (detailed below) predicts that time perspective, working through the incentive value of motives, should influence self-control. Moreover, we argue that selfcontrol is domain-specific but often appears to operate across domains due to the pervasive influence of time perspective.