Ever felt like one slip-up means your whole streak of progress is ruined? You’re not alone! The Abstinence Violation Effect (AVE) is a common psychological hurdle when breaking free from any habit, including pornography and masturbation (P&M). Let’s break it down:
- The Dirty Jacket Mentality: The Rosh says in the beginning of his commentary of Vayikra, that once you sin, it can feel like it’s easier to do it again. He compares it to when your clean jacket gets a small stain – the temptation is to say, “Ah well, it’s ruined anyway!” But getting dirty once doesn’t mean you should dive into a mud puddle!
- The AVE in Action: When it comes to P&M, the AVE can turn a single slip-up into a freefall. Instead of seeing it as a stumble, the AVE makes you feel like your progress is shattered and it’s pointless to continue. It’s the voice that says, “I messed up, my whole streak is gone, I might as well keep going.”
Sholom’s Example: Sholom, reached a fantastic milestone of 180 days clean! But then stress got the better of him, and he slipped up once. Instead of seeing it as a minor setback, the AVE kicked in. He felt hopeless, considered giving up and waiting until he was in a better mindset to try again.
Break the AVE’s Trap: Two Key Strategies AND Turn Stumbles into Stepping Stones
Luckily, Sholom remembered about the AVE and chose a different path. Here’s what you can do too:
- Notice the AVE Lies: After a setback, a flood of negative thoughts is normal. The AVE will try to convince you that it’s hopeless. But like Sholom, you can catch those thoughts and say, “This is just the AVE talking, it’s not the real me. I made a mistake, but I’m getting back on track!”
- Talk it Out: Don’t battle the AVE alone. Sharing your struggle with a supportive friend or co-pilot gives you perspective. They remind you how far you’ve come and help you keep moving forward.
Guard Your Eyes: Your Toolkit for Lasting Freedom
GYE offers powerful tools and strategies specifically designed to help you overcome the AVE and turn setbacks into valuable learning opportunities. After registering, you’ll gain access to:
- Your Emergency Checklist: Prevent toxic shame and the Abstinence Violation Effect from causing a downward spiral.
- Setback Reflection Tool: This questionnaire helps you analyze what led to a slip-up, enabling you to create better strategies for next time.
- Setback Chain Tool: Identify the full sequence of events that contribute to setbacks, including those seemingly small decisions.
- The Forum: Share your setback and receive encouragement from a supportive community of people on the same journey.
Ready to Break Free for Good?
Don’t let the AVE derail your progress! GYE can equip you with the tools and support you need to build lasting freedom from P&M. Register today and start your journey to a life of control and inner peace!