- Knowledge Bomb Newsletter
- Posts
- KB87 - 6 Surprising Truths about Self Control
KB87 - 6 Surprising Truths about Self Control
The Knowledge Bomb Newsletter
Jay Alderton
August 30, 2024
For the past 18 months, I’ve worked tirelessly on a book that’s easy to understand, deeply compelling and offers straightforward, easy-to-implement guidance.
This book reveals seven simple strategies for skyrocketing your success, amplifying your strength, and boosting your happiness.
MINDSET
6 Surprising Truths about Self Control
Ever feel like self-control is this mystical force reserved for monks and superheroes?
Guess what: It's not as out of reach as you might think!
Here's a rundown of six eye-opening truths about self-control that'll shake up your thinking and, more importantly, your actions:
Number One: People with high levels of self-control avoid temptation rather than resist it.
Studies suggest that people who are good at self-control don’t rely on willpower alone.
Instead, they strategically avoid situations where they might be tempted.
Self-Control Tip: Know Your Weaknesses.
If you know you struggle to say no to a night out after one drink, and you’re focused on improving your health, it’s better to avoid situations where you’ll be tempted.
Number Two: Self-control can be contagious.
Research shows that self-control can spread through social groups.
Seeing others exercise self-control can make us more disciplined too.
Self-Control Tip: Your Environment Dictates Your Performance.
“You are the average of the five people you spend most of your time with.” Surround yourself with high-performing, disciplined people, and you’ll be more likely to follow suit.
Number Three: Self-control is a better predictor of life success than IQ.
Studies have found that self-control is more closely linked to academic achievement, financial stability, and good health than intelligence.
Self-Control Tip: Take Self-Control as Seriously as Your Education.
Recognise the power of self-control in shaping your future. Prioritise it alongside your other goals.
Number Four: Temporary self-control failures can lead to future success.
Experiencing setbacks in self-control can actually help you in the long run.
Reflecting on these failures can lead to better strategies and stronger resolve.
Self-Control Tip: Learn from Your Mistakes.
Remember, “You don’t learn anything from a perfect week.” When you slip up, take time to reflect and develop a better strategy for next time.
Number Five: Sleep quality significantly affects self-control.
Poor sleep can weaken self-control, making it harder to make good decisions and manage emotions.
Self-Control Tip: Prioritise Sleep.
Build a solid night-time routine: avoid social media after 8 pm, keep your phone out of the bedroom, take a hot shower an hour before bed, and wind down with a book.
Number Six: Chronic stress can drain your self-control.
Continuous stress makes it harder to maintain self-control, leading to decision fatigue and reduced willpower.
Self-Control Tip: Manage Your Stress.
Make stress reduction a habit. Regular exercise, daily walks, and practices like journaling, mindfulness, or breathwork can help keep stress in check.
Self-control isn’t about heroic feats of denial.
It’s about setting up your life to sidestep pitfalls and prime yourself for success.
Small tweaks, big gains—that’s the mantra!
I hope you enjoyed this edition of my Knowledge Bomb Newsletter.
See you soon for another instalment.
Jay Alderton
Reply