Was I even getting better at all if all it took for my downfall was a single game?

Dude... You've got to be happy with yourself, and quiting "cold turkey" really doesn't work in this instance.

Moderation is key, so don't be so hard on yourself. Just set a timer, and make a list of things you need to do. After you've accomplished your task, you can reward yourself.

I'm in a similar situation, as I'm studying for an IT related certification exam. Here's a rough idea of what I do on the daily.

1.) Exam prep, Re-read (skim) previous chapter points from yesterday. 5-7 min.

2.) Exam prep, Start new chapter reading and notes. 30-45 min.

3.) Mental Health Break, (take a walk, or other light physical activity) 15-20 min.

4.) Physical Exam Practice, 45-90 minutes.

5.) Break/Lunch, 80 min. This is where I grab a match & eat lunch. I'm really into Hell Let Loose, and Red Dead Online right now... So I'll allow myself to do one match in HLL, or two-three bounty hunting missions in RDO.

6.) Continue Physical Exam Practice/Theory, 90 min.

7.) Unplug Break, 60 minutes. This one is important, I get away from all screens to avoid eye fatigue. However, I might take the opportunity to read a physical book (instead of a screen).

8.) Plan for tomorrow session, 10-15 mins. Preview of stuff to come, or bullet points, etc.

9.) Done for the day. Do what I want/need.

Hope this helps...

/r/DecidingToBeBetter Thread