Essentially, we need to try, a step at a time, the following when confronting an unwholesome thought within:

1.Think of a good thing. In this case, the easiest is to think that not doing this bad thing is good in itself.

If the above attempt fails, and the unwholesome thoughts come up again, go to number 2:

2.Think of the bad repercussions this thought will bring; most of the time, these repercussions will be upon yourself (the law of karma).

If No. 2 is still not working, go to No. 3 and so-fourth:

3.Don’t think about it. (Find something else to do).

4.“Relax” distracting thought formations: As soon as you see an unwholesome thought, stop that thought from forming other thoughts. Essentially the Buddha said to tell yourself to gradually slow down the mental (and physical) mess that this unwholesome thought is creating in you.

5. Fifth and final try: With clenched-teeth, tongue on the palate of the mouth, and fight evil mind with good mind. Just say “STOP” to yourself and stop that unnecessary thought.

The Buddha stopped here, so it means that No. 5 should work… if it is not, you are not trying hard enough.

Note: The above cannot be applied if we are not aware that we are having an unwholesome thought. We need to be aware, at every moment, of what we are doing (i.e. thinking). This is the basic frame of mindfulness that the Buddha told us to cultivate. It is not easy, because the mind tends to drift when you are not mindful, but this essential “basic mindfulness” need to be there to “live in the present moment”

I am reading the book. When Giacobbe is speaking about “Control of the Mind” he’s actually speaking about unprejudiced observation of thoughts (the rollercoaster of our chatter?)… So it seems that you’re both talking about the same thing.

Also Giacobbe says that a Buddha knows that thoughts are automatic.

Thank you for your insights Professor Giacoabbe.