You know lots of stuff - but do you actually apply what you know?
Whilst tweaking my 32 Weight Loss Tips article this morning, I realized that I know this stuff inside and out -- but I don't actually do it! I know I should only eat when I'm physically hungry and stop eating after a handful of potato chips (yeah, right) -- but I don't apply what I know.
Recently, I read that this phenomenon -- having knowledge but no wisdom to apply it -- occurs because in the midst of life, we don't stop and think about what we've learned. For instance, when we're struggling with the temptation to drink, snort, toke, eat or gamble we don't go back to our "head" knowledge about the problems that come with drinking, snorting, toking, eating or gambling.
In other words, we get caught up in the moment. Happens all the time: in traffic, in arguments with family, in stressful situations. We tend to go with the flow instead of stopping and thinking.
That's why support is really helpful. That's why Alcoholics Anonymous offers buddies, and Weight Watchers has weekly meetings, and Gamblers Anonymous provides counseling support. Leaning on others gives us strength when we're weak.
So whatever you're struggling with - food, booze, drugs, one-armed bandits, sex - consider getting a buddy. Be accountable. Be real. And start applying what you know to your actual life.
