When thinking about our relationships with alcohol, it is important to review what a “healthy” relationship actually looks like. In technical terms, “healthy” refers to 1-2 standard drinks per day, taking everything in moderation. In a work environment, however, alcohol can have a tenuous standing, with some occasions even carrying the expectation of drinking; social functions, celebratory outings and after work drinks, just to name a few. To combat this and any other social pressures, noticing the impact that alcohol has on your life is essential to developing better drinking habits.
While many will have no issue, drinking in a workplace can always pose a risk to everyone in the environment, which is why it is important to establish healthy relationships, especially in avoiding any consequences surrounding substance abuse and addiction. Unfortunately, there is no “one-size-fits-all” solution. Everyone needs to make good choices for themselves and have the support of their friends, family and co-workers. Here are 3 tips on how to forge a healthier relationship with alcohol at work.
Get a Healthy High
One way to combat an unhealthy habit is to take up a healthy one. Think about other interests that you have besides drinking, whether it be an active physical interest, such as hiking, yoga or running, or a more cerebral pursuit, such as painting, chess or learning another language. Whenever you get a craving or urge to drink, supplement this urge with one of your newfound hobbies. You can bring others in to help you with this process to make it more enjoyable and successful. For example, when you would normally have drinks with work, try going for a walk or spin class instead. By improving your relationship with alcohol in this way, you not only improve your physical and mental health, but your work ethic, personal relationships, and everything else that comes with a new, brighter outlook on life.
Turn Away from Triggers
A trigger is something that makes you want to drink. This could be anything from people that you see regularly to activities that often involve indulging. Avoiding these triggers is one way that you can begin to control your alcohol intake. Going cold turkey is a difficult process, so having alternatives on hand to satiate the feelings brought on by triggers is key. Whether this is one of your healthy habits, non-alcoholic beverage options or even your favourite food, having a plan to tackle these triggers will go a long way to helping you navigate your way to a healthier relationship with alcohol. Something as simple as a having a polite and firm ‘no’ at the ready for when co-workers offer you alcohol is another way to pre-empt any cravings or trigger signs. After all, the quicker you can say no, the less likely you are to throw in the towel.
Setting Healthy Goals
Goal setting is one of the most highly recommended ways of getting back into a healthy relationship with alcohol. When you decide that you want to change some of your lifestyle habits, goals provide markers and steppingstones for you to hit on your way, providing you with a much-needed shot of success. These goals can be linked to anything, for example simply keeping track of how much you are drinking. This will help you to accurately identify any patterns and reassess where you want to go moving forward.
Setting these goals is not something that you have to do alone. Connecting with friends and family can be a sure-fire way of making sure that you hold yourself accountable to your new targets, with the extra support from others to keep you on track. You can also engage a life coach, who can offer another level of guidance to help you overcome alcohol addictions and eradicate the problem in a workplace. Contact us at NextThought today to learn more about coaching and counselling services avialable.
