How do you deal with competing impulses?
If you’re not sure what competing impulses are, then let me give you an example.
It’s currently 5:15 am, and I’m writing this blog post. There’s a part of me that would rather be sleeping in my nice warm bed, but there’s also a part of me that has committed to writing this blog. I’m challenged with competing impulses.
Here are a couple of competing impulses that might resonate with you.
Saving instead of spending money today for financial security in the future.
Eating healthy instead of indulging in unhealthy food today so that you can reap the benefits of good health in the future.
If winning the battle over competing impulses sounds like short-term pain for long-term gain, you’re correct.
But it’s more than just short-term pain.
It’s about identity.
It’s about you making a decision about the kind of person you want to be and then committing yourself to the future version of yourself.
Let me be clear. Committing yourself to a future version of yourself is not easy, and this is especially true if you’re surrounded by people that not only see you as you are but are also comfortable with who you are.
The people that see you as you currently are and the comfort of your readily available choices are the gravitational pull that, if you let them, will keep you from becoming the person you want to be.
Every time you’re faced with competing impulses, you must make a decision, and the decision is based on one question.
What kind of person do you want to be?
This is a personal question, and only you can answer it. And there is no right or wrong answer.
So, the next time you’re faced with the dilemma of competing impulses, think about the person you want to be. If you’re okay with who you are, then challenge avoided, carry on. But, if it’s change you’re seeking, then leverage the future version of you to pull you out of your current state, and move you one step closer to your ideal identity.
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