The Secret to Giving Up Alcohol Is Starting a Sexy Sober Life Habit
Here's how to start a sober life habit
Many people think they lack willpower and control when it comes to giving up alcohol. What they really lack is clarity. It is not always obvious when and where to take action. This is one of the mistakes I made when I tried to taper off drinking.
In this article, we're going to discuss the ideal time and location to start giving up alcohol and building your new sexy sober life.
In other words, it's time to get really focused on giving up alcohol and it's time to find a clear and specific space for your new sexy sober life. If you can find the right mindset and then link it to the right time and the right place to start your new sober life, everything falls into place.
Setting Yourself Up For Sober Life Success
Here's how to do it:
One effective way to create your new sexy sober life is to start with what James Clear, author of Atomic Habits, calls an "implementation intention."
An implementation intention is a plan you make beforehand about when and where to act.
In simple terms you need to be crystal clear about how and when you intend to implement your new sexy sober life.
It's what Gabriele Oettingen refers to as the WOOP system.
https://woopmylife.org/en/practice
This system has been extensively researched and shown to be effective in helping people follow through with their plans and achieve their goals. I've written about this in this article; The Secret to A Sexy Sober Life is Actually an Unsexy Plan.
Getting clear and having a system is necesarry whether you are building habits like improving your finances, going to sleep early or giving up drinking.
The simple way to apply this strategy to help you give up drinking and live a sober life is to fill out this sentence:
I will [BEHAVIOR] at [TIME] in [LOCATION].
You can use this system to help you taper off drinking and start living with sobriety. Let me give you a few examples of what this looks like.
- If you need a drink at a specific time, e.g 1pm, you can say, I will take a walk for 5 minutes at 1pm.
- If you normally reach for a drink as soon as you finish work, you can say I will make a green smoothie at 7pm in my kitchen.
- If you need a drink when you get stressed, you could say, I will send my partner a check-in text before I drink alcohol.
The crucial step here is getting organised in your mind and in your actions so you have a solution ready to replace your habit of reaching for a drink.
Finding The Sweet Spot
Finding the sweet spot will set you up for success instead of failure. It may take a little practise. You are looking for the right time and location to insert the habit of living a sober life into your daily routine.
You are looking for the decisive moment where your new habit of being sober should live. For example, recently when out shopping I overheard a conversation in which an elderly gent said he had a lager at 7.30am when he woke up. His right time to insert the habit of being sober would be 7.30am.
Make sure your implementation intention is specific and clear. Here are a few more examples of clear specific intentions:
- I will stay hydrated and drink 1 litre of water after I brush my teeth in my bathroom. I know being hydrated will improve my health.
- I will list the non-alcoholic beverages I will consume today when I have my first coffee at 7am.
- In my lunch break I will list 5 things I can do each evening instead of drinking when I get bored.
When and where you choose to start, the habit of living a sober life can make a big difference. If you're trying to taper off drinking at the birthday party of your best drinking buddy, you are going to be setting yourself up for failure as you're in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Consider when you are most likely to be successful. Don't ask yourself to give up alcohol at an event where you habitually drink a lot. This is like entering a marathon when you've been a couch potato all your life. It can be done, but most of you will fail.
The more tightly bound your new habit of being sober is to a specific time and location, the better the odds are that you will be able to follow through and say no to alcohol.
Every sober journey starts with that first step. Take control of that first step, plan for it and make it the right first step. Then do it again.
Final Thoughts
- Giving up alcohol and living a sober life requires changing your behaviours and changing your identity.
- Anyone can say no to one drink, but saying no for the rest of your life requires a massive mindset shift.
- If you don't change the belief behind your drinking behaviour, it will be hard to stick with long-term changes.
- Saying "NO" needs to become part of who you are. Every time you say NO is a vote for the sober person you want to become.
- A sober life must be started and established before it can be improved. You need to master the art of saying no and looking after yourself. Giving up alcohol is the first step in living a sexy, sober life.
- If you can introduce your sober habit at the right time, everything falls into place.
- Starting your new sober habit of saying No to alcohol to a specific time and place the more likely you are to take the right action and be successful in giving up alcohol.
Assume nothing is as it seems and all things are possible.
"Everything is not always as it seems. Assume nothing. Assumptions close the door to all that is and might be. The open mind sees beyond the breaking wave to the distant shore. It takes the longer view and sees more"
Live Strong, Love, and Stay Sober
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Caryn Leach-Smith
English Coach & Writer
This srticle was first published on https://joinsober.com
About the Creator
Caryn G
Loves coffee & life.
Day 4 of Quitting
If this is how sobriety feels, maybe it’s better to go through life a little buzzed… this, along with other hits like, I want to kill myself, I wish I was dead, and I’m going to throw myself off a bridge have been the only thoughts on rotation these past few days. I promise myself that if, in a month, I still feel like this (‘this’ meaning despondent, full of rage, and simultaneously numb) I can go back to smoking. Until mid-February though? Nicotine is off the table.
By sleepy drafts5 days ago in Longevity
Common pain relievers may raise heart disease and stroke risk, doctors warn
Millions of people worldwide rely on over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers every day to manage headaches, muscle pain, arthritis, and other ailments. However, recent studies and warnings from medical professionals suggest that frequent use of certain common painkillers may be linked to a heightened risk of heart disease and stroke. These findings have prompted doctors to advise patients to exercise caution, particularly those with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions or risk factors. Understanding Common Pain Relievers Pain relievers, also known as analgesics, come in various forms, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, naproxen, and diclofenac. Acetaminophen (paracetamol) is another widely used painkiller, often considered gentler on the stomach than NSAIDs. While these medications can provide quick relief from discomfort, long-term or high-dose use may carry unintended health consequences. NSAIDs work by blocking enzymes involved in inflammation, thereby reducing pain and swelling. However, the same mechanisms that relieve pain can affect the cardiovascular system. By altering blood vessel function and promoting fluid retention, NSAIDs may increase blood pressure, strain the heart, and elevate the risk of clot formation—all of which can contribute to heart attacks or strokes. What the Research Says Several recent studies have shed light on the cardiovascular risks associated with regular NSAID use. For example, research published in major medical journals indicates that even short-term use of high-dose NSAIDs can slightly increase the risk of heart-related events. The risk grows with long-term, daily use, particularly among people who already have hypertension, diabetes, or a history of heart disease. Acetaminophen, while often considered safer for the heart, is not entirely risk-free. Some studies suggest that high doses over extended periods may affect blood pressure and liver function, indirectly influencing cardiovascular health. Doctors emphasize that dosage and frequency are critical factors, and taking more than the recommended amount can be dangerous. Who Is Most at Risk? While anyone can experience complications from frequent painkiller use, certain populations are particularly vulnerable. Adults over 50, individuals with high blood pressure, those with a family history of heart disease, and people with metabolic conditions such as diabetes are at heightened risk. Dr. Linda Thompson, a cardiologist at a leading U.S. hospital, explains: “Many patients underestimate the cardiovascular impact of medications they take for pain. People think, ‘It’s just ibuprofen, it’s safe.’ But repeated, long-term use can quietly increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes.” Practical Advice from Doctors Medical professionals urge patients not to panic but to be mindful of their painkiller use. Key recommendations include: Follow Dosage Guidelines: Always adhere to the instructions on the packaging or as prescribed by your doctor. Avoid exceeding recommended doses. Limit Duration: Avoid taking painkillers for extended periods unless advised by a healthcare provider. For chronic conditions, discuss safer long-term strategies. Monitor Cardiovascular Health: Regular blood pressure checks, cholesterol monitoring, and periodic heart evaluations are crucial for anyone who uses NSAIDs frequently. Consider Alternatives: Physical therapy, acupuncture, lifestyle changes such as weight management and exercise, and other non-drug interventions can reduce reliance on painkillers. Consult a Doctor: Before combining pain relievers with other medications or if you have existing heart conditions, seek professional guidance. The Importance of Awareness Public awareness about the cardiovascular risks associated with common pain relievers is limited. Many people take these drugs casually, assuming that over-the-counter availability equals safety. However, as Dr. Thompson notes, “Accessibility doesn’t guarantee harmlessness. Awareness is the first step in preventing serious complications.” Healthcare providers are also working to educate patients on the importance of individualized treatment plans. Some patients may benefit from alternating medications or using lower doses intermittently, reducing cumulative risk. Pharmacists play a role too, offering advice on safer options and potential interactions. Looking Ahead While painkillers remain essential tools for managing discomfort, ongoing research underscores the need for cautious use. The emerging data on cardiovascular risks highlights that what is convenient today may carry hidden consequences tomorrow. By understanding these risks, following medical guidance, and exploring alternative pain management strategies, patients can protect both their immediate well-being and long-term heart health. Conclusion The widespread use of common pain relievers comes with unexpected dangers. Doctors warn that NSAIDs and other analgesics, when used frequently or in high doses, can elevate the risk of heart disease and stroke. Awareness, moderation, and professional guidance are key to using these medications safely. As more research continues to emerge, it becomes increasingly clear that effective pain management requires a balance between relief and long-term health considerations.
By Fiazahmedbrohi 6 days ago in Longevity
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