Strengthen Self-Control: Health Tip

Whether it involves resisting a piece of chocolate cake or an ice-cold beer, fighting temptation may be easier said than done.

But with clear goals, self-monitoring and practice, you can improve your self-control, says the American Psychological Association.

The association suggests:

• Use the "out of sight, out of mind" approach.
• Prepare "if-then" scenarios for tempting situations.
• Stay motivated. This can overcome weakened willpower.
• Like a muscle, regularly exercise self-control to improve it.
• Eat regularly to maintain blood-sugar levels.
• Focus on one goal at a time.