Temptation…it is something that seems to constantly be in our face in the fast-paced and intrusive world that we live in. Temptation is a state of being enticed, or in other words pulled towards something. So often those things are bad, even evil. So often we get tempted by the same thing over and over again until it literally becomes a habit. And once we find ourselves down in that habit hole, it can be incredible difficult to get out. Those bad, dreaded habits can be nicotine in its many forms, overconsumption of caffeine or alcohol, unhealthy snacking and binge eating, which are not uncommon and even worse habits can form such as theft, lying, illegal drug usage and adultery. A habit is essentially succumbing to the same temptation on repeat. So really, it is numbing or blocking out those temptations that becomes crucial to safeguarding yourself from bad habits, whether it’s a current bad habit or the potential for developing a new bad habit.

Not all habits are bad, actually there are many good habits out there. I’ve been a victim of bad habits throughout my life just like so many others. I’ve been actively working to learn to safeguard myself against bad temptations and to replace bad habits with new healthy habits, such as more exercise, healthier eating and reading more to name a few. Remember, if you have bad habits, you’re absolutely not alone, but even more important, remember that bad habits are not a permanent curse and so many people, like myself, have been able to overcome bad habits, even better, trading those bad habits for good habits.

Here are some ways to help you fight back against bad temptations:

• If you know you are prone to certain temptations, try to find some accountability supporters. Trustworthy family members and friends are usually a good source. Be open and honest with them about your struggle and ask them to be available to talk when those temptations creep up on you. The goal of accountability supporters is to have someone, or a group of people you can call upon when you are being faced by temptation, so you have someone to help talk you away from the temptation. The call or talk can help steer you away from the moment of temptation, and over time you will become confident in the fact that you can indeed walk away from temptation.
• Make situational changes. If you know that you are consistently facing specific situations that are generating temptation, try to change those situations. For instance, if you are struggling with the temptation of drinking, take yourself out of any situation where you may be tempted to have a drink. Try to replace those situations with something else that is more inspiring and positive for you and doesn’t have the potential to put you in a situation of other bad temptations.
• Find and implement distractions. If simply cannot avoid certain situations where you know you will face bad temptations, try to come up with distractions for those situations. Such as, if you are tempted to smoke while you are driving to work, try listening to some positive music or motivating podcasts and have a good supply of gum on hand. Each time you have an urge for that cigarette, pop in a couple pieces of gum, I suggest sugar free but that’s your call. Keep doing that over and over each time you have that tempting urge. This suggestion may, or may not apply to you or work for you, or maybe it will. Nevertheless, my intention is to give you an example of potential distraction you could incorporate into your routine to help you deal with those unavoidable situations where there is temptation.
• Be real with yourself and the result of giving into the temptation. Incorporate constant reminders of the result. If you are struggling with something such as the temptation of alcohol, put a recurring event with a reminder on your calendar and within that have text that talks about the negative effects of alcohol usage. In your car, put up a sticky note that has the same text. Surrounding yourself with constant reminders of the negative effects of the temptation you struggle with can have an impact on your mindset and the next time you feel urged to pick up that drink your mind may go straight to thinking about those messages of the negative effects of the temptation.

The difference between an amateur and a professional is in their habits. An amateur has amateur habits. A professional has professional habits. We can never free ourselves from habit. But we can replace bad habits with good ones. –Steven Pressfield

I want to leave you on this note regarding the topic of avoiding bad temptations and ridding your life of bad habits

Within you lies the strength to resist temptations and break free from bad habits. It may not be easy, but remember that you have the power to choose a healthier, more fulfilling path. Believe in your ability to overcome the allure of those harmful temptations.

Identify the triggers and patterns that lead you towards bad habits. Replace them with positive alternatives and surround yourself with a supportive environment. Seek out healthy habits and activities that align with your values and goals.

Embrace the power of self-discipline and perseverance. Take it one day at a time, knowing that each small victory is a step towards a better version of yourself. Be patient and forgiving with yourself during moments of setback, for change is a gradual process.

Remember, you are not defined by your past mistakes or habits. You have the ability to make different choices and create a brighter future. Believe in yourself, stay committed, and celebrate every milestone along the way. You are stronger than any temptation, and with determination, you can break free and live a life filled with positivity and fulfillment.