VIRTUE OF THE MONTH

- SELF CONTROL -

Self-control is the ability to stay grounded and make wise choices, even when emotions, temptations, or outside pressures try to pull you off course. It’s about practicing patience, setting healthy boundaries, and choosing what’s right over what’s easy in everyday life. This kind of self-control grows as we learn to pause, pray, and stay focused on what honors God, trusting that He helps us stay steady in a world that often isn’t.

"For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline."
— 2 Timothy 1:7

As part of our current series, Left to Our Own Devices, we’ll be focusing specifically on how this virtue applies to our use of technology.

Digital Best Practices:

1. Designate Tech-Free Zones - Establish certain areas in your home, like the bedroom or dinner table, where smartphone use is not allowed, to ensure quality time with yourself or loved ones.

2. Set Specific Times for Checking Notifications - Instead of constantly responding to every ping, allocate specific times of the day to check and respond to notifications.

3. Use Do Not Disturb - Activate the "Do Not Disturb" feature during times of work, study, or rest to minimize distractions.

4. Delete Unnecessary Apps - Regularly review and uninstall apps that you don't use or that contribute to unhealthy habits.

5. Mindful Scrolling - Be conscious of the time spent on social media and aim to engage in activities that add value to your life, rather than mindless scrolling.

6. Turn Off Non-Essential Notifications - Disable notifications for apps that don't require immediate attention to decrease constant interruptions.

7. Practice the "Out of Sight, Out of Mind" Principle - Keep your phone in a drawer or in another room to reduce the temptation to pick it up without a purpose.

8. Use Screen Time or Digital Wellbeing Features - Leverage built-in smartphone features to track and limit your screen time on certain apps or functions.

9. Engage in Ongoing Regular Digital Fasting - Allocate one day a week or a few hours each day where you completely disconnect from your smartphone to reconnect with the world around you.

10. Reflect on Your Smartphone Use - Regularly take time to reflect on how your smartphone use is affecting your mood, productivity, and relationships, and make adjustments as necessary.

On this page, you will find resources, tools, and opportunities available to help develop this virtue into your everyday life.