Dhru Purohit Show The Self-Control Shift That Changes Everything + A 5 Minute Meditation You Can Start Today
Nov 24, 2025
Dr. Alok Kanojia, a Harvard-trained psychiatrist and co-founder of Healthy Gamer, delves into the intricacies of self-control and addiction. He explains how true success stems from awareness, not sheer willpower, and introduces the concept of 'urge surfing'—the idea of observing impulses instead of resisting them. Alok also shares personal tales from his addiction journey and highlights the benefits of integrating neuroscience with meditation to enhance resilience and happiness. Plus, he leads a quick five-minute meditation to get started on building self-awareness.
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Awareness Is Self-Control
- Self-control and awareness are the same brain process because the anterior cingulate monitors internal conflict.
- When we stop monitoring that conflict we lose control and act on autopilot.
Use Urge Surfing To Ride Out Cravings
- Use urge surfing: watch impulses and wait for them to pass instead of trying to conquer them.
- Focus on inaction and sit still long enough for desires to dissipate on their own.
Create Space Between Impulse And Action
- Stretch the time between impulse and action by adding friction and distance to tempting behaviors.
- Create space so your rational goals can vote before the automatic impulse wins.