Self Control Really Does Matter

It’s early on a quiet Saturday morning.  My husband and I have enjoyed a 2 day, mountain cabin get-away with dear friends.  I’m working on my first cup of coffee, thinking about the travel day ahead.  It’s snowed quite a bit the last 24 hours and the roads between here and home will certainly be slow going.  I’m also thinking about Trader Joe Cocoa Truffles as I eye the counter top full of snacks we’ve been grazing from.

Truffles

Have you ever had a Trader Joe Cocoa Truffle?  You would know if you had.  They are smooth as butter and downright sinful.  They are just one of the many calorie packed holiday treats I’ve enjoyed in excess the last 6 weeks.

In no uncertain terms my body is screaming for a post-holiday sugar fast.  My mind knows it’s necessary but my heart hates the idea.

Generally speaking, I can stay away from “candy” but a hint of chocolate or icing requires true resolve.  I hate that it hurts, but Self Control Really Does Matter.

In reflecting on the holidays, certain situations might highlight some victories and failures in self control.  Did you set and stick to a budget for Christmas gifts? Did you continue your fitness routine and eat in moderation?  Did you continue to spend some quiet time every day with God?  Did you lose your cool when your nephew knocked your grandmother’s relish try off the wall?  Looking back over the last 6 weeks, I’ve got some self control work to do in an area or two.

It’s helpful, in my experience, to really approach the thing you’re working on with focus on the final outcome.

I turned 40 this year.  I want to be fit at 45.  I want to fit into my wedding dress for my 20 year anniversary.  At 50, I want to roll on the floor and hike with my grandchildren.

I want to be debt-free, including the mortgage, before long.  I don’t want finances to keep me from serving where God calls. I want to be able to home-school our children and volunteer my time and talents alongside my husband in ministry.

I want my extended family to be close.  I want my siblings and their families to value our relationships.  I want my nieces and nephews, as adults, to reach out and share their successes and struggles.  I want them to know that I love them and will be praying for them until my time on Earth is over.

Those end goals are important to me but they aren’t going to magically happen.  They will require self control in the present.

Let this serve as fair warning.  I’m going to be sugar-free the majority of January and February.  Proceed with caution 🙂

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