Take a Drink!

The war cry up and down the country on a Friday is 'take a drink' as we all sign off on another week of deadlines and meetings that could have been emails.

How many of us declare this 'war' on a Mojito Monday (for the hangover you understand), Tipsy Tuesday (Tuesday is such a m'eh day, right?), Wine Wednesday (It's hump day!) and Thirsty Thursday (it's literally in the name Lauren!)

I know I have and it definitely becomes a habit all too easily. From my own perspective my mum died very suddenly and within months, I decided to quit my corporate job. I was dealing with terrible grief and it just seemed easier to take the sting out of it with a gin and tonic.

Now I am not going to tell you that I hit rock bottom and am rising from the ruins of a broken life. It never got anywhere near that stage and there are people around me who said I was being a drama queen. Although I had not totally lost control I knew it was a slippery slope and decided to hop on the dry January bandwagon. For what it is worth, here are my observations based on my own experience:

1. Changing habits can be tough. For a whole month? Whit? I joined an online challenge group. It involved Zoom calls and emails etc. Not necessary but fun and for me meant I was 'all in' on the deal.

2. Protect your boundaries. Not everyone will be on board with your decision and that is absolutely fine. Avoid people and places that may trigger your desire to drink. It is up to you if you want to just avoid your pals or if you want to have that conversation - either way, it is ok to be selfish. This was easy for me because I am 51 and like to be in my jammies by 9pm - but not everyone is lucky enough to have my lifestyle!

3. Get busy - as I said I had left my corporate job to start this coaching business but had been talking about figuring out how to build a website for months. The extra energy and focus I had meant that I actually sat down and did what I said I was going to do - it came off my list! So many things came off my list! This was very satisfying and also kept me super busy.

I am sure there are other things but you get the idea.

Will I drink again? No...maybe...probably. Who knows? I do know that January 2023 has been amazing. It has felt exciting; full of promise and creativity.

I am no expert in addiction but if you feel you are on the top of your own slippery slope and it is preventing you from living the life you dream of, consider reaching out.

Let's find out what you are capable and go get it!