Progress, not perfection…
Who’s game for a little updatey-doo?
(Yes. We’re making up words now.)
I previously wrote a post pertaining to alcohol use, and on the steps we can take to reduce our consumption:
In this story, I mentioned that I am trying to actually eliminate alcohol from my life — at least temporarily — due to an upcoming stomach surgery. I am not supposed to consume alcohol for about two months prior, and six months afterwards.
That’s a long time!
Unfortunately, the surgery date seems to keep moving farther into the future, and thus, so is my motivation.
However, I DO still bring a positive update!
I admittedly did struggle initially after writing my article. It’s hard to give up a nightly glass of wine and such when you’ve formed a regular habit of it! But happily, after focusing on a “progress vs perfection” mindset, things started to go a lot more smoothly.
Maybe taking the pressure off was just what I needed?
Prior to the pandemic, I rarely drank. But due to the boredom of staying home for days on end in early 2020, that changed. And I recently realized that I was continuing this unhealthy habit for absolutely no reason. It was just routine.
So. Something finally clicked. And I got to work.
While I have not eliminated alcoholic beverages from life just yet, I have greatly reduced my consumption of them. Where I used to be buying multiple bottles of wine per week, I am now purchasing less than one. Often none.
And when I went away in mid-March, despite the temptation around me, I only ordered two alcoholic beverages during the whole vacation. And you know what? I didn’t even care!
Going forward, and within a couple of weeks, I should be down to a “zero amount”. And I am thrilled to report that this goal no longer makes me nervous. In fact, I am kind of excited for it!
After all, less alcohol equals a healthier mind and body. I am looking forward to seeing what I can achieve with an even clearer head.
To finish this, I will say that I hope that others who are looking to reduce their alcohol intake know that it’s possible — that they can do it, and be happy doing it.
If you are one of those people, know that I am encouraging you and cheering you on from afar.
It may be hard, but I promise you. It’s worth it.
