Alcohol is the deadliest drug in the world – causing millions of deaths and countless issues in our society. So, how do you cut your drinking down our out altogether to live a better life?
Keep Track Of Your Intake
We all know just how easy it can be to lose track of how much you are drinking, however, those nasty hangovers are a bad reminder. It is best to try and keep track of just how much you drink. There are a number of alcohol intake apps which will help you keep track while you are on the go. If you happen to drink at home, try to get into the habit of measuring just how much you are drinking. It is much easier to drink more than you should if you are not paying attention to your overall intake.
Shrink The Drink
We know this sounds way too easy. However, many people always go for a large. Instead of a large glass of wine or a pint of beer, take it down a size. Slow down on drinking and actually enjoy the flavor and savor the moment. This is going to slow the experience down and you will order less.
Notice Alcohol Content
There is no secret that the amount of alcohol content varies greatly from drink to drink. There are a number of wines that have an incredible amount of alcohol likewise some of the craft beers that are on the market now. You need to invest your interest in the amount of alcohol in each drink and try to consume more low and non-alcoholic drinks. Many of the non-alcoholic beers on the market taste very similar to the alcoholic versions and there are a number of soft beverages to add into the mix.
Have A Drink Free Day
In addition to lowering the amount of drinks, you should also invest in having two days a week with no drinks. If you are trying to cut down on your drinking, drink free days are a great way to achieve this. Set aside two days and keep track of it. Reward yourself for achieving your goal and go out to dinner or a spa treatment, just keep drinks out of the celebration.
Make A Change Today
If you find that your social life revolves around drinking, make a change. Find something that is new and will help you break the cycle.
Consider a new hobby or sport that will allow you to socialize without the alcohol.
Instead of having lunch at the local pub, head to the park for a picnic.
Instead of eating out, start making your own dinners at home with no drink.
Stay as far from places and people that encourage your drinking habits.
No Alcohol Home
Instead of holding a stash of alcohol at home, limit your drinking to when you go out. It will take no time to break your drinking habit. Likewise if soft drinks at home seem boring, seek out recipes for non-alcoholic drinks. It is time to get creative at home! You may even want to experiment with some of those fancy mocktails you can find online. Many couples find that they both become alcohol dependent, rehab for couples is a common way to help each other through.
Fight Your Urges
If you get the craving for a cold beer, always keep in mind that you are trying to cut back. In fact, write it down where you can always see your goals and desires. Cravings always pass, just ride out the feeling and keep your goals in sight. There are a number of things you can do to stay sober even when you are bored out of your mind.
Staying Strong
You may have friends that pressure you to fit in, but you must remain strong. The more often you say no, the sooner they will understand. Try to steer clear of rounds of drinks, this is going to allow you to stay in better control. If you are cutting down on the number of drinks in your life, bring regular soft drinks breaks into your life.
Find A Team Mate
It is so much easier to make these difficult changes in your life, if you have someone willing to commit with you. Both of you can support one another and offer help when it seems just too difficult to continue.