Q: Just like physical energy, self-control can be "used up." When you exercise, you reach a point where your muscles are tired out and it becomes difficult for you to continue lifting those weights or running. When you exercise your decision-making skills, the same thing happens to your brain.  One study found that students who had to exercise self-control in one task did poorer on a subsequent self-control task than students who hadn't had to flex those self-control "muscles" prior to the activity. So, if you're going to a holiday party with a lot of sweets that you want to resist, make sure you don't also eat lunch in the breakroom near that open box of doughnuts. This constant pressure to resist temptation could wear you down. The same study also found that decision-making can impact your self-control ability. If you know you're going to be in a situation that requires you to make decisions, such as a high-pressure meeting at work, try to avoid other situations that day that will require you to resist temptation. For example, perhaps say no to a big party in the evening if you know you will have to make some decisions earlier in the day. Eating habits can be a big source of temptation, but healthy eating habits can also help you avoid depleting your self-control resources. One study found that students who had not eaten recently did worse on a self-control task than students who had had a recent meal and had stable blood sugar levels.  Even a quick refreshment, such as a glass of lemonade or a piece of fruit, can help bring your glucose levels up and improve your self-control. Eating foods high in fiber, such as beans, oats, potatoes, and vegetables, will help your glucose levels stay steady rather than dipping or spiking. They also take longer to digest, which will help you feel fuller longer and can help fight food-related temptation. Stress can use up your self-control resources really quickly. There are several ways you can deal with stress:  Try daily techniques such as yoga or tai chi.  Meditation helps many people relax.  Deep breathing exercises can be helpful, and you can do them anywhere, anytime. Get enough rest. Sleep at least 7-9 hours a night, and keep a sleep routine, even on weekends.
A: Keep an eye on your self-control energy levels. Eat well. Avoid stress.

Q: Find some comfortable heavy blankets and big pillows when you know that a storm is coming. These can block out the storm. If you are agitated or particularly bothered by the noise, try covering your head with the blanket or with a large pillow – being very careful that you have room to breathe. Grab a hoodie instead of pillows and blankets. This can be a pullover, zip-up, or full zip. It really doesn’t matter. However, the hoodie should preferably be a thick but comfortable, and not one that is tight or restrictive.  Try to fall asleep the hoodie on. Once you have retreated to your thunderstorm room, have earplugs, and are snug in your hoodie, give sleep a shot. The hoodie will cover your ears. If the lightning is still bothering you, reverse it so that the hood covers your eyes. Alternatively, some hoodies zip up all the way to the top of the hood. If you have one of these, pull the zipper all the way up to cover your face. If it makes you feel more secure, make a barrier of your favorite stuffed animals against the storm. Gather your animals together. Try arranging them in a circle or rectangle around your bed. You will be at the center. Hop into bed and snuggle down. Imagine that the animals are guarding you. Let their presence reassure you and create a make-believe force field to keep away the dark things. Remember, the storm will not last. Usually, the worst of a thunderstorm is over within a short amount of time, often between thirty minutes to an hour. You are also safe at home, inside of your room. Try not to worry yourself too much.
A:
Create a pillow and blanket barrier. Put on a hoodie. Create a stuffed animal barrier. Try not to worry about the storm.