EP165 Minisode: Why change feels so HARD

It's Not About the Alcohol

In today’s episode, Colleen dives into the importance of setting realistic and achievable goals when it comes to detoxing or taking a break from alcohol. She shares insights on why habits feel hard to break, the role of internal programming, and the importance of creating an environment that supports your goals. If you’ve ever struggled with sticking to a goal or felt overwhelmed by the idea of change, this episode offers a clear and compassionate approach to navigating challenges and setting yourself up for success.

Key Takeaways:

• Why Habits Feel Hard:
  • Managing a drinking habit is hard, but breaking it feels equally challenging because it’s not yet a habit.
  • Your brain is designed to keep you in familiar patterns, using thoughts and feelings to resist change.
• Truth vs. Thoughts:
  • Thoughts like “What if I can’t do this?” are not truths—they’re just words in your brain. Instead, ask, “What if I can?”
  • The truth is: you can do whatever you set your mind to, as long as you’re willing to make it your priority.
• The Importance of Environment:
  • Success in any detox or break requires designing an environment that supports your goal.
  • Clear the stress bucket—remove other commitments and distractions to focus your energy on the change you want to make.
• Detox Realities:
  • Detoxing, whether from alcohol or food, often comes with unexpected physical and emotional challenges.
  • Be prepared for fatigue, mood swings, and vulnerability, and create space to navigate these experiences.

Action Steps:

1. Identify What You Want: Be specific about your goals and ask yourself, What do I really want?
2. Commit to Success: Acknowledge that success requires a willingness to prioritize your goal above other commitments.
3. Design Your Environment: Remove distractions, ask for support, and create a structure that makes your goal achievable.
4. Plan for the Unexpected: Be prepared for emotional and physical challenges and give yourself grace to navigate them.
5. Ask the Right Questions: Replace fear-based thoughts with empowering ones like How can I make this fun and easy?

Homework: Reflect on a goal you’ve been considering, whether it’s a short detox or a long-term change. Ask yourself:

• What do I want?
• What am I willing to do to achieve it?
• How can I set myself up for success and make this process manageable?

Click here to BOOK A DISCOVERY CALL. If you’re ready to fully commit to your personal growth and do the work to get emotionally sober (side effects include an 80 percent reduction in drinking),You'll walk away from our call with a clear understanding of how to get the skills you need to transform your life.

Do you want help from Colleen with a situation you’re struggling with? Click here to submit your question for Colleen’s NEW Q& A episodes. Your name will not be mentioned on air!

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