So, what helps you delay gratification?

[90802]

HI gang,

Long time lurker, infrequent poster here

Anyhow...one of my biggest difficulties in making changes is fighting the urge to try to fix EVERYTHING at once. Social life, work, health, etc. All things that need massive change, but, after a week or so of trying to change them all, I suffer burnout, and don't do anything for, let's just say...a long time.

So, what do YOU do (or have done) to resist this urge, and put off gratification in the other steps till later? Do you concentrate on just one thing at a time, and let yourself do whatever you want in the other areas?

For example, overeating is a big problem (oooo, did I just make a pun?) for me. Since work is what I need to work on most in my life right now, would it be best for me to concentrate on work and worry aboot diet later? How long do you think you need to develop one habit before going to another (30 day trials?)?

There's also a degree of change available for each habit...for example, if I tried to go balls out and get 8 hours of effective work done each day, I may last a week at most.

Sooooo...does that mean work should be my sole focus until I get it where I want it to be.


Arrrrgh, it's soooooo frustrating and confusing!!!

So, what tips and advice do you have for me? What big challenges have you worked through, and how long did it take you? Did you change multiple things in your life at a time, or focus on one at a time?

Any tips/advise are greatly appreciated.

[Lioness]

Since work is what I need to work on most in my life right now, would it be best for me to concentrate on work and worry aboot diet later?

As you've seen, trying to change everything at once backfires. However, some goals are complimentary and can reinforce each other. You can probably focus on improving at work, and still make some positive changes in your diet without going crazy. Healthier eating/exercise can help you function better at work. Just don't try to plunge into some strict, radical regimen.

Keep it easy and simple. I do things like keep bottled water, and some healthy non-perishable snacks at my desk instead of grabbing sodas and junk food from the machines. If I pack a lunch like a Lean Cuisine, fruit and yogurt, I'm usually satisfied and do not crave other stuff. You could walk sometimes during your lunch break - this is likely to give you more energy and mental focus.

Identify exactly which things you need to improve on the job and develop a checklist, schedule, or some system tor keep yourself on track.