What Is Rationalization?

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Vices are always in the eyes of the beholder and are learned ways of coping with stress.

The keys to putting the brakes on them is to track your triggers and have healthier substitute behaviors.

If underlying depression or anxiety is present, get professional support.

We’re not talking about addictions here, where both habit and brain physiology can take control of your life. Instead, we’re talking about vices, those breakout behaviors that are always in the eyes of the beholder, your personal list of no-nos and shouldn’ts—too much sugar, alcohol, or food, shopping therapy, porn bingeing, or sexual acting out. Behaviors that periodically flare up, that you know aren't the best, and that, while they create a tinge of guilt, never generate enough guilt to overcome those hefty doses of rationalization.

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