Getting a Grip: How to Improve Your Self-Control

We all have moments where we lose our temper, say something we regret, or otherwise act in ways that are out of line with our goals and values. But for some of us, these lapses in self-control happen more often than we'd like. If you're looking to rein in your impulsive behavior and take back control of your life, read on for some useful tips.

1. Understand Your Triggers

The first step to improving your self-control is understanding what sets you off. Pay attention to the times when you're most likely to lose your temper, overeat, or give in to temptation. Common triggers include stress, fatigue, boredom, and social pressure. Once you know what your triggers are, you can start to develop coping strategies specifically tailored to them.

2. Consider the Consequences

Before you act on impulse, take a moment to think about the consequences of your actions. Will they help you achieve your goals? Or will they just make things worse? When we're in the heat of the moment, it's easy to forget about the long-term repercussions of our actions. But if we can pause and reflect on the possible outcomes of our choices, we're more likely to make wise decisions.

3. Set realistic goals

Part of having good self-control is knowing your limits. If you try to take on too much at once, you're bound to get overwhelmed and lapse into old habits. So start small and focus on making one change at a time. Over time, as you build up your self-control muscle, you can tackle bigger challenges.

4. Find an accountability partner

It's always easier to stick to your goals when someone else is holding you accountable. So find a friend or family member who will support you in your efforts to exercise self-control. Check in with them regularly and let them know how you're doing—you'll be more likely to stay on track if you know someone is rooting for you.

Improving your self-control isn't easy—but it is possible with a little effort and perseverance. By understanding your triggers, setting realistic goals, and enlisting the help of a supportive friend or family member, you can make positive changes that will last a lifetime. So what are you waiting for? Start today!