How many “harmless” indulgences or habits can you think of that you repeat daily? One is starting our day with a coffee in the morning then soon enough realise we can’t operate without it! Another one is the constant checking of our phones, we often end up checking our phones for every single notification, vibration or flash!
Such “harmless” addictions end up governing our lives. Addictions can vary from drinking coffee, taking drugs, complaining, gossiping, smoking or consuming sugar. No matter what it is, addictions end up taking control and whether or not we are consciously aware it is a vicious difficult cycle to get rid of!
Side note: Some addictions are less harmless than others but the word itself should alarm you and make you want to change a thing or too. If you feel like this article is nonsense and you are indeed, not addicted, try to avoid e.g. coffee or sugar for a day or two and see what happens.
Steps to reclaiming your freedom and clarity:
- Make a list of things you feel you can’t do without. Usually the smallest of things if repeated daily can mean you are addicted.
- Try a specific period of time avoiding such addictions. E.g. Have tea or an orange juice instead of coffee each morning. You might feel uncomfortable at the beginning but that is your body’s way of showing you its detoxing.
- Each week, try something different. Whether it’s a different route home or quitting smoking after food this will strengthen your mental strength.
- If complaining is your “jam”, each time you catch yourself doing so give yourself a mental slap. Instead tell yourself that “it is what it is”, deal with it or get over it.
“We must give up many things to which we are addicted, considering them to be good. Otherwise, courage will vanish, which should continually test itself. Greatness of soul will be lost, which can’t stand out unless it disdains as petty what the mob regards as most desirable.” Seneca – Roman Philosopher
Show yourself that you are in control and no addiction or bad habit can lead your life!
PS: If you are suffering from a serious addiction for example drugs, consult your nearest doctor or professional. Help is usually just a phone call away.
Fotis
