"Do not be mistaken. Simply understanding the word 'self-control' in your head does not mean you can exercise it in any situation. Self-control is precisely what you must practice in reality. Resolve to practice self-control in one thing every day, no matter how small. If you cannot easily accomplish at least that much, you cannot claim to have self-control. Furthermore, if you cannot exercise self-control in small matters, you cannot expect it in great tasks, nor will you reach success. To have self-control means to be able to control yourself. It means to personally regulate the desires that dwell within your heart. It is to be the master who firmly governs your own actions, rather than being dragged along by wherever your desires lead. "
- Excerpt from 'Thus Spoke Nietzsche' -
How many times have I exercised self-control throughout my life? Controlling my own desires. All this time, I have acted according to what my heart dictated. I was dragged along by wherever my desires led. I thought that was right, but it seems that is not the case. It is not about following what the heart dictates, but acting based on rational judgment. It is about becoming a master who firmly governs one's own actions. One must have a valid reason for such actions. I need to think about 'why' I should do something. I will try to exercise small acts of self-control day by day to become my own master.
Desire , by dictionary definition, is " feeling a lack and coveting to possess or enjoy something; or such a state of mind. "
The desire to sleep more, the desire to play, sexual desire, the desire to eat more, the desire to own more... I will try to restrain these countless desires inherent within me one by one. I will not comply through rationalization, but instead, take time for self-reflection through questioning. I will choose my actions myself—not driven by urges or desires, but as my complete, true self.
Become your own master.