What is self-control? Does anyone practice that anymore?
Self-control is a discipline. It’s learning how to say no. It’s the discipline of controlling our emotions and behaviors. It’s not having that 2nd piece of pie, not drinking soda at every meal, not buying another cute outfit, not losing your temper because your day was awful. Self-control is just that, controlling yourself, your emotions and impulses.
In this day and age we have access to anything and everything. Our bellies are full. Our homes are full. Our lives are full. There are so many choices, it’s overwhelming. Everyone is selling something and we are all buying it, because we can. And if we can’t afford it, well let’s just borrow the money to get it.
I recently had my daughter help me clean out my sewing room. I mean we cleaned..it..out! I got rid of so much stuff! I can’t believe how much I still have even after purging it all. It makes me sick now to think about how much money I’ve spent over the years on all the stuff that I never used. Now mind you, this is over 20 years of sewing purchases. (Even now, I’m trying to justify it, lol.) But I am not alone. I know a lot of family and friends who have a lot of stuff too.
I read a biography about Mahatma Gandhi who, when he died, only had 6 possessions. Can you imagine only owning 6 items? What would your 6 items be? (I have great admiration for minimalists.). I couldn’t even pick 6 things just for the sewing room!
We all have struggles. Some people struggle with money, some struggle with food. Some people struggle with addictions to drugs and alcohol. Some people struggle with depression and some with anger. What’s your struggle?
When you lack self-control, you are going to struggle. You have to be able to see your struggle for what it is and be able to address it.
Learning self-control is doable. It takes practice and discipline, Being aware of the things you struggle with is key. Avoiding those situations is also key. Having supporting family and friends matters too. Faith in God and prayer can help you overcome along with determination. Sometimes though, some struggles need a little extra help. That’s when you need to seek the help of a professional. There’s no shame in that.
I don’t want to seem flippant but in getting my sewing room cleaned out, I sought the help of my daughter who is an organizer guru. Whenever I walked into that room, the thought of cleaning it out was so overwhelming, I could never just get started. But when I asked for help, suddenly it was doable. We tackled it bit by bit. Before I knew it, it was done. Now when I walk into that room, there is a sense of peace and calmness. It’s wonderful. So if you’re struggling with something, don’t be afraid to ask for help.
“All things are permissible, but not all are beneficial.” “Everything in moderation.” and “Too much of a good thing can be a bad thing.”or “Just because you can, doesn’t mean you should.” I’ve heard these sayings many times throughout my life.
So what’s your struggle? Write it down. Make a choice to practice self-control for the next 21 days. There’s no better time like the present to make a change. It’s the new year. Change your habits. Change your life. Each change you make brings you closer to living life to the fullest!
Here’s a self-control worksheet to help get you started. Download and if you like this post, please share with your friends. God bless.
