Questioning Your Relationship with Alcohol
Hello Friend!
Alcohol has been a big topic for a few weeks now. During the pandemic, many couples expressed an uptick in their drinking as a way to manage stress, entertain themselves, and feel connected during such extreme isolation. In recent weeks/months, I’ve seen the impact of that choice catching up with many people. In most cases, one partner is noticing that the drinking has gotten out of hand, and the other partner is maintaining they’ve “got it all under control” and don’t see it as a problem. I hear things like “I don’t know what they’re so worried about. They drink too. So what if I have a few drinks every day?”
Every once in a while, someone might say, “yeah, I’m drinking more than usual, but I wouldn’t say I’m an alcoholic. Maybe I am? What even defines an alcoholic?”
Obviously, this is an issue that requires a professional who is devoted to understanding and treating addiction. But when clients are grappling with “is this really an issue”, a coach can often be the first stop.
Here are the filters I run my clients through to help them understand if they might be a candidate for treatment:
- Is it causing problems in any of your relationships?
- Is it causing problems at work?
- Is it draining your finances?
- Is it monopolizing your time?
- Is it constricting your energy?
We’re either expanding or contracting. If there is something (anything) in your life that is contracting your relationships, time, money, and/or energy, it’s worth considering how much better off you would be without it.
My favorite resource to share with people (particularly entrepreneurs) who are beginning to navigate this conversation is Genius Recovery. If you or someone you love is struggling with alcohol or any other addiction, start here: https://geniusrecovery.org/open-letter/
If you’re clear that you don’t need full-blown recovery, but are ready for a healthier relationship with alcohol, consider a “SOBER CURIOUS” challenge among friends. Being “Sober Curious” is not a commitment to full-blown, long-term sobriety. It’s simply committing to being alcohol free for an indefinite period of time while you are exploring your relationship with alcohol. It allows careful examination and consideration before drinking to ensure you are choosing from a place of health & empowerment — not addiction.
xo
Kelly
