In 2001, after 13 years of alcohol and drug addiction, homelessness and living outside society, Ian Young discovered the solution to his debilitating lifestyle, creating a life filled with laughter and love, and addiction free.
Author of ‘It’s Not About Me! – Confessions of a Recovered Outlaw Addict, from Living Hell to LivingBig’, Young discloses his story through addiction, while exploring practical and spiritual lessons he’s learned along the way, hoping to use his experiences to benefit others struggling with addiction.
If you’re attempting to stag grog-free this month, try Ian’s tried-and-tested tips…
1) Make changes
Change the people and places that you socialise with or at. This is easiest when you mingle with people who aren’t drinking either.
2) Safe House
Make sure there are no sneaky bottles or mementos in your house to remind you. These will encourage you to have a quick drink and lose your challenge.
3) Be accountable to someone
Pick a friend or partner to do the challenge together with. Allow yourselves to hold one another accountable and check in with them on a daily (minimum) basis
4) Replacement Therapy
Replace your drinking activities with something else – ideally something that isn’t harmful to you – e.g. exercise or joining a club that appeals to you. You can also add an enjoyable food into your diet to feed your pleasure sensors, such as a nice fruit drink, or some chocolate (remember to only eat sensible amounts). Alternatively (or in addition), you could play music or go to comedy shows, which release the endorphins whilst helping you smile and laugh.
5) Keep yourself busy
Create an alternative structure to your day and plan your free evenings / weekends differently. Make sure you’re never bored or lonely by filling up your time and if in doubt, commit yourself to dedicating more time with your children and / or your partner. Maybe focus on their success’s as well as your own.
6) Education
Educate yourself on the physical harms your alcohol consumption has been causing your body. Consider just how great you’re feeling in the mornings and appreciate the break you’re giving your body.
7) Keep things simple
Break the month down into manageable sizes so you make a commitment not to drink for one week, day, or even just one hour at a time and then repeat this whenever you’re tempted.
If you’re looking for a more permanent respite from your drinking, download Ian’s free book “It’s Not About Me” , which contains a full guide on how to stop and stay stopped with a full guide to a successful recovery from any addiction.
For more about Ian or for help to quit drinking, visit the below.
www.ian-young.com
www.soberservices.co.uk
www.addictionroadshow.co.uk
