Attempting to Unveil the Mysteries of Self-Control

     The concept of self-control has been the most interesting yet mind-boggling mystery to me for many years, and I think the complex nature of this concept transcends facile explanations that requires a deeper look into human behavior.  And as I write this blog post, I am still unsure and lost in the forest of what to claim given the complex spectrum of possibilities. However, given the captivating nature of this subject, I still feel inclined to write and share about my opinion of self-control (even if it may not be accurate), and its several possible factors that stems from the human theme of threat since the beginning of our existence.

    Among the challenges life brings us, the fear of losing control looms large.  From struggling to meet basic needs to facing societal pressures, everyone feels threatened in their own way.  Even those who seem to have it all can’t escape the anxiety of maintaining their status.  This fear has been with us since ancient times, shaping our instincts and behaviors of human nature.

    But our responses to threats aren’t always rational, as our responses are colored by subjective interpretations and biases.  Here are three factors I think shape our capacity for self-control, and why we always feel limited to what we can control.

Feeling “Overthreatened”(Lack of Patience):

    The sense of urgency stemming from perceived threats causes hasty, often irrational decision making.  Fueled by stress and anxiety, we often succumb to the motive of immediate resolution, heedless of the long-term repercussions.  Take for instance, a student like me overwhelmed by the academic deadlines often resorts to unhealthy coping mechanisms, sacrificing sleep and well-being in hopes to meet unrealistic expectations.  The fear of failure and its consequences impels us to incorrectly prioritize short-term relief over sustainable self-care practices.

Purposely Trying to Avoid Threats (Lack of Motivation):

    The temptation to evade perceived threats through avoidance can seem like an effective strategy.  However, this approach overlooks the long-term growth by focusing on short-term relief.  By retreating into the safety of familiarity, we forfeit the opportunity for transformative experiences and personal development.  An individual paralyzed by the fear of failure confines themselves to their comfort zone, missing challenges and opportunities for growth in favor of stagnation which can be detrimental to their rationale and choices that grow them as a human.

Being Unaware of the Depth of the Threat, or the Threat Itself (Lack of Understanding):

    Ignorance of underlying threats engenders a false sense of security, leading to misguided actions and outcomes.  In the absence of concern, we sabotage our own well-being, oblivious to the consequences lurking beneath our understanding.  For example, a person oblivious to the consequences of smoking will persist in their habits, until they discover that it is too late.  Even individuals who discover the consequences of smoking still succumb to nicotine, because it overpowers their understanding of the negative consequences.

    In conclusion, self-control in my opinion is about how well we understand the threats we face and finding balance in how we respond.  By learning to navigate challenges with patience and awareness, we can master our impulses and lead to a healthier and fulfilling lifestyle.