I think in some ways we manipulate ourselves and know we are doing it too. I used to do this with food, alcohol and things which I convinced myself that I needed (but I really didn't).

It is hard to break these tricks you play on yourself because we are generally encouraged to distract ourselves and avoid true introspection.

I think things are changing though with more promotion of mindfulness. I understand they may even introduce it into the schools in the UK.

Once you start to cut through your own BS it makes it easier to see in the rest of life.