The War Within

To overcome contradictions in thought and behaviour, is to dialectically generate the harmony and balance necessary for psychological development. There is nothing worse for a rational animal than to be at odds with their very own psyche. To say one thing one moment and do the opposite the next is to pry open the gates of hell and unleash inner torment. Cognitive dissonance is a malady that can prove to be quite literally fatal if left unchecked. It is incredibly distressing to feel powerless over one's passions. The only cure for this dilemma is an earnest commitment towards analysing the contents of experience, and then consistent mindful application of the resultant insight.

If you know something you're doing is self-destructive, then you ought to amend that fact. But unfortunately it doesn't boil down to sheer will power and grit. The secret lies in the correct valuation of passing phenomena. We can't desire away desire, but we can choose to prioritise healthier habits over the more pathological ones. But what exactly are these healthy habits? Essentially, it is what brings long term benefit that is independent of external factors. In other words, it's the kind of pleasure that lasts and remains readily available. This inevitably entails the virtues of discipline and moderation. The minimalist lifestyle.

It might not seem as mind-blowing as excessive sensory stimulation, but the satisfaction of contentment is the only way to swim through the shifting tides of universal flux without drowning. Once you see this clearly, the choice becomes obvious and the burden is lifted. Because to consciously ignore this realisation and remain rational is epistemically impossible. This is the end of self-sabotage and the dawn of wisdom. Life need not be an internal battlefield, and although it may seem otherwise; there is indeed a preferable alternative. Like a symphony orchestra, all parts of the mind should compliment and accentuate the whole. None of them taking full precedence over the others. This is ultimately what constitutes enlightenment and is the source of real happiness.