How to Practice Self Control
Self-Regulation allows us to monitor difficult thoughts and emotions calmly to respond in a way that is appropriate to ourselves, others, and our environment. Self control, the behavioral management part of self-regulation, not only helps our social interactions, but it is considered a fruit of the spirit from God (Galatians 5:22-23).
How can we exercise self-control?
Remove temptations. The best way to exert self-control over something that may tempt us is to remove ourselves from the situation or remove the temptation.
Focus on the bigger goal. Ask yourself what the benefits of showing self-control are at this moment? How does this profit your future and goals?
Learn how to manage your stress.
Forgive yourself. Mistakes happen, try again.
What are some habits that contribute to having better self-control?
Regular exercise
Eating well
Plan for situations that will test your resolve
Practice exercising willpower
Focus on one goal at a time
Build a consistent prayer life
What else do we know about self-control?
Self-control and decision making are linked together. When situations require heavy decision making capacity, the less self control is available. Conversely, after exercising self-control, decision making can become simpler and easier.
As one study suggests, self-control may be a limited resource. In this study, it was found that resisting temptation and self-control diminished throughout the day (Kouchaki & Smith, 2014). Have you found yourself more susceptible to your temper later in the day or more likely to raid the pantry? This is founded in science!
What does the Bible say?
“Like a city that is broken into and without walls. So is a person who has no self-control over his spirit.” Proverbs 25:28
“For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control." 2 Timothy 1:7
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