I have stopped counting “days since” — in the sense that I am no longer using length of the “streak” as a motivator. Although I let my eyes linger over certain photos in the press longer than I should, there is no pull from the old ways. The habits are broken.
However, I have noticed that I am counting “days until”. As the lockdown rules are easing, there is now a real prospect of either me or my wife Sara spending a few days away (on business, or family responsibilities) — in other words, of me having a few evenings to myself.
I find myself looking forward to revisiting a particular old haunt. I feel confident that I’ll be able to indulge while S is away without losing self-control once she has returned. I’ll be able to start a new streak!
Who knows? I have surprised myself in the past when I have not taken advantage of this kind of opportunity.
How to avoid? Have other goals that are “as” attractive:
- creative writing: write a story, or begin one
- yoga blowout: do morning and evening sessions every day for sensual overload
- prayer challenge: pray out loud
(I do know the “days since” count ofc, and log it in my diary: it’s 87.)
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