I am writing this entry on the morning after the first Republican Presidential candidate debate took place. Adhering to my policy of not discussing politics or religion with patients, I am not going to opine as to whom I thought “won” the debate. There were a number of different issues brought up by tbe moderators and at times, the different candidates went after each other pretty good. Quite entertaining at times for sure.
The focus of my discussion today is more on the concept of “self-debates”. But wait a minute…doesn’t a “debate” need to involve several people? Well, for purposes of this entry, here is what I am referring to:
If we took the time before detrimental eating/drinking behaviors to “self-debate” the action, perhaps we would take a different approach. When about to down several glasses of wine if the “healthy” part of our persona started debating the “eat, drink and be merry” part of ourselves, then there would be a good chance of that action not occurring. The “healthy” part of us will lay out the risks associated with the behavior and explain why the action should not be taken.
Now, in reality, we are not going to start talking to ourselves like some lunatic when we are at a buffet bar or cocktail hour. However, as opposed to “self-debate” perhaps the concept of “mindfulness” can be used. If we stay mindful of what we are trying to achieve (i.e. better health and happiness) then we may make better choices when challenged with less healthy options.
The “debate” that our brains engage with is the merits/dangers of immediate gratification vs. delayed gratification. Here is hoping that your “healthy/mindful” part of your brain wins the debate.
Here is something fun…a video collage of old memorable debate moments.
