Overcome Cravings through Impulse Control

Kathryn J. Raths, LLC photo

I’m here with you, trying to live a healthier life. And although I may fail a number of times when I look at my life today, it is much healthier than the life I led 5 years ago, so I’m trending in the right direction. And my small successes are adding up and helping me! It is helpful to look at trends in your journey instead of day-by-day micro-analysis; this way is more compassionate and eye-opening.

WebMD.com advises on developing impulse control, “You can improve self-control at any age, according to Marc N. Potenza, MD.

For kids: Practice and practice again; keep it up. Learning and further developing social skills such as sharing, taking turns, and allowing others to speak without interuption is not only polite, it's an exercise in impulse control. Starting this training early helps build brain function and instills good habits that continue for a lifetime.

For grown-ups: "Trying to foster good habits in people at an early age is helpful but it's never too late. People can change -- particularly if they are motivated to change," says Potenza. To fight temptation, try substituting a healthier immediate reward for the less desirable treat you crave. For example, put a dollar into a vacation fund every time you resist the urge to have a drink.

If tips don't do the trick, medications combined with cognitive behavior therapy can reduce compulsive behaviors, including gambling and substance abuse.”

Remember not to be too harsh on yourself during the change process; self-love enables positive change, while bullying yourself only makes you feel worse.

The message here is that you can develop impulse control, which is key to your persevering spirit manifesting positive change. Don’t give up!

What are you trying to change? What do you feel like you can't give up? Tell me about it.