But you must reclaim the ability to abstain because within it is your clarity and self-control.

addiction is when we’ve “lost the freedom to abstain.”

the exercise of choice, refusal, yearning, repulsion, preparation, purpose, and assent.

Have you taken the time to get clarity about who you are and what you stand for?

“Who are you?” or “What do you do?” or “Where are you from?”

When your efforts are not directed at a cause or a purpose, how will you know what to do day in and day out? How will you know what to say no to and what to say yes to? How will you know when you’ve had enough, when you’ve reached your goal, when you’ve gotten off track, if you’ve never defined what those things are?

Control your perceptions. Direct your actions properly. Willingly accept what’s outside your control.

Knowledge—self-knowledge in particular—is freedom.

If you feel so inclined, pair it with a notebook to record and articulate your thoughts and reactions