Psychologists say that self-control is like a muscle that can be exercised and strengthened.
I read an article online about exercise and sleep, both of which are critical to managing and living well with diabetes. On the side of the page was an advertisement for Little Debbie Swiss Rolls, complete with a photo of the delicacies and a “find a store” tab.
I found myself staring at the Swiss Rolls and wondering how many people would have the self-control to continue reading about exercise and sleep (on the left) vs. clicking on the tab and finding a store with Little Debbie snacks (on the right). Great opportunity to work on strengthening that self-control muscle!
But seriously, just when we thought we were saved from advertisements on TV (thanks to the “pause” and “fast forward” buttons), now we have to see them on the Internet. It was bound to happen, but still a bummer. Hopefully we’ll take advantage of this opportunity and get stronger at self-control.
PS I love this quote, which I found here, because it is such an important message. It’s not about can or can’t – it’s about choices.