Moderation

Enjoyment and indulgence are intertwined; hence, the dessert menu is tempting even when you feel full. Often, excess is excused as little more than letting off steam. Mostly, you don't even recognise you were satisfied until you've overdone it, but a reminder will come your way.

Whether it's a subtle clinking of cans in a recycling bag or the unavoidable pounding of a hangover, we rarely escape indulgence free of charge. It pays to be conscious of consequences. The repercussions of our actions are a reminder that certain behaviours are unsustainable, checks and balances.

How many times have you heard friends pledge sobriety after a binge? When we are aware of the damage we've done, we search for ways to repair, switching between extremes. It's an easy mindset to understand, the choice is indulgence or restraint. However, depriving yourself of enjoyment eventually leads to boredom or envy. It is as equally unsustainable as indulgence.

There isn't a correct way to live, but I'm most content in moments of moderation. Though I doubt I'd appreciate temperance if I hadn't experienced gluttony, it's a method of eliminating the envy of others' excess, to recognise their repercussions await because you've already experienced yours. Furthermore, it's a tool to quell temptation's call, a reminder to leave sweets on the shelf because you understand their enjoyment is fleeting.

Ultimately, it's uninteresting, though there are few more liberating feelings than self-control. Next time you're deliberating desert, but recognise you've had enough, stare temptation in the face, smile, wink, wave and say, 'Not today'.