J.D. Roth over at Get Rich Slowly writes today about how he uses mental tricks to outsmart himself and thus resist irresistible temptations.

Yes, I’m sure some folks whose souls shine with character and resolution think it’s silly. But hey, whatever works.

I know I use mental tricks or “bargains with myself” not only to resist temptations, but to talk myself into doing things I would otherwise procrastinate over. “If you get to work on that article by 8:00, you can stop at noon and take the rest of the day off.”

I also use tricks to aid memory. If I don’t have a notepad with me or I have my hands full and I get a sudden flash about something I need to to — a call I must make, an errand I must run — I’ll look around, see a common household item (something highly visible; often something out of place) and say, “That receipt from the grocery store will remind me to email Barbara,” or “That paint brush on the counter will remind me I need to pay the electric bill.” Amazingly, it works.

So do you have mental tricks you play on yourself or do you use mental bargains with yourself to get things done? If so, care to share?

It would be especially great to hear tips and tricks that help folks improve money matters, preparedness, or freedom. The big things.

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