Breaking pornography addiction, a getting started guide. Posted Wednesday, May 28 2008 by ThroughTheFlame.org with contributions by Dominus, Light, and FoolishMind I've decided that I want to stop looking at Porn. Where do I start?
For many, quitting porn and overcoming porn addiction seems like a daunting task. Many people try over and over and keep producing the same results. Depending on the amount of time and exposure you have had with pornography, it could be extremely difficult, but as many who have gone before you can attest, it is worth the time and sacrifice. One important thing to remember is that you may have to make sacrifices in order to make progress. If you are really ready to recover, then you will do whatever it takes to reclaim your life for yourself. Here are some tips that have been suggested by our members:
1) Get rid of all the porn.
This means anything you have used in the past to get aroused, vhs, dvd, magazines, computer files, etc.
2) Get rid of the "soft porn" as well.
While it may not be as bad, it can trigger you to look for porn and encourage negative habits. What is soft porn? Magazines like Maxim, FHM, etc. Anything like that needs to go. If you are honest with yourself, you know what this list entails for you.
3) Make a list of what triggers you to look at porn, and when. Are there times of the day when you are more tempted than others? Being alone? Emotional states, such as frustration, anger, or depression?
4) Work out a plan for dealing with these triggers,
Figure out and plan
how you can avoid your triggers, and deal with the ones you can't avoid.
5) Turn off the computer as much as you can.
For many who are getting started, just turning off the computer can be a huge step in the right direction.
6) Move the computer to a busy area in your living space.
You will be less tempted to look at pornography if the computer is in a common living area where people will walk by and see what you are doing.
7) Don't use your computer when you are alone.
For many being alone can be one of the most difficult times. If you understand this you can easily avoid this problem by choosing not to use the internet when you are alone.
8) Become a more spiritual person.
This doesn't necessarily mean organized religion. What it does mean is to focus on the good and important things in life. It could also mean meditation and getting control of your mind.
9) Be disciplined in other areas of your life.
Being disciplined in other areas of your life can have the positive effect of spilling over to this area as well.
10) Focus on building relationships and friendships in the real world.
Funnel all your extra energy into your partner or significant other if you have one, and relationships can help you realize what you were missing through your addiction.
11) Tell someone about your addiction.
One of the most difficult things in the world can be telling someone about this addiction. But after doing so, many people find it a much easier burden to bear, much easier than going it alone. If you are in a relationship and you confide in your partner, that can be the most beneficial thing, but telling a close friend or family member can help as well.
