So what’s next? Embrace the New Year New You. Whether you choose to stay dry or carry on but drink a little less, One You Lincolnshire is here to help!
Choosing to stay dry:
You got this! You’re noticing the benefits of surviving 4 weeks without alcohol and curiosity has gotten the better of you! Here’s some tips for along the way:
Day by day! – Take it slowly. Consider setting yourself small goals. Perhaps you can set yourself weekly challenges. Telling yourself you are not going to drink ever again can be daunting, even 6 months can seem overwhelming. Set small milestones and celebrate each one. “Today I choose not to drink” – tomorrow is a new day! Why not take on another challenge?
Keep on Keeping on Going – Reflection the last month and the things that worked for you, make a list and keep them up! Whether it be the non-alcoholic beer in the fridge, the sparkling water replacement or the cosy evening distraction, it’s working don’t stop now!
Plan! – Now is the time to plan. You’re feeling more energised, your head is clearer and your more able to concentrate. It’s easy to get complacent. Make a plan for future events and social situations. How will you respond to these? What things will you put in place to support your newfound sobriety?
Choosing to “Drink a Little Less”:
So you want to carry on drinking but Drink a Little Less than before. That’s great! Having a break from the booze in January will definitely have helped and reducing your intake will mean you will continue to reap the rewards. Here’s some tips on how to maintain a healthy relationship with alcohol.
Plan! – Think about when you want to drink and how much you want to drink. Consider whether or not you will have alcohol in the house or whether you will buy this on your chosen days.
Track your units –Download the “One You Lincs” App and track your units. It’s a great way to keep an eye on how much you’re drinking, helping you to stick to your goals.
Alcohol free days –Try to include a minimum of two drink free days a week. Introducing more alcohol free days is an easy way to keep your units low.
Seek support - Tell someone you can trust who can offer encouragement. You might consider telling a close friend to avoid any uncomfortable questions. Feel a little awkward telling those close to you but worried your drinking might creep back up? Speak to one of amazing Health Coaches who can motivate you to keep going!
Choose a lower strength alcoholic drink – Choosing a drink with a lower ABV % can help to shave off those units. Alternatively introduce more non alcoholic varieties.
Focus on the positive reasons for making a change – Remind yourself of the benefits that moderating your drinking has to your health. Remember why you wanted to make this change in the beginning and focus on the rewards of Dry January. New Year New You!
The information and advice within this blog are not intended to replace any medical advice, with all our clients we seek to address their individual needs and circumstances - this includes any adaptations required for long- or short-term health conditions and medications. Please seek medical advice if you have any health conditions before considering a lifestyle change. If you would like to address any of the content of this blog, please email us at hello@oneyoulincolnshire.org.uk
Laura Bell, Drink Less Lead
February 15, 2021
