WHAT: Define Desires is a life-changing time hack for overcoming modern addictions such as alcohol, drugs, pornography, processed foods, and social media — habits that offer brief moments of pleasure but ultimately desensitize us and create dependency. By clearly defining our genuine desires, we gain a powerful tool to break these addictions — one that's more effective than relying solely on willpower.
HOW:
- Healthy Eating: Instead of constantly fighting cravings for unhealthy options, I identify nutritious foods I genuinely enjoy and ensure they're always readily available.
- Technology Use: Instead of starting with tactics like turning off notifications, deactivating social media, or banning my phone from my bedroom, I begin by defining my personal vision. Determine what I'm all about, what I care about, and what I want to do. Then work backwards and decide what tech supports that.
WHY: This approach acknowledges that humans are good at committing to positive changes but struggle with avoiding negative behaviors. The thought, “I think I use Facebook too much, so I'm going to try to use it less”, rarely works. What does work is: “I have a vision for my life that's incredibly positive and fulfilling. I'm excited about it, and, as it happens, that vision doesn't include Facebook”.
By focusing on what I truly desire and aligning my habits with those aspirations, I create a positive framework for change that's more sustainable than relying on restriction and avoidance.