a time to take stock of your relationship with alcohol, and work on better managing it. You might just want to see if sobriety is really right for you. These conditions all fall under the "sober-curious" status. Becoming sober is a significant step, marking a pivotal transition; so, taking a measured approach may be more suitable. You can start with smaller servings, perhaps only a quarter or half of the glass (without a refill). No need to start with a full month at first; try being sober for a few days or a week. At the end of the period, you can decide whether to recommit, and take it from there. And, you don't have to embark on such a momentous goal at the beginning of the year; you can wait till later—maybe a "Sober October"—as you assess how dedicated you are to embracing sobriety, or build your will to lead a healthier lifestyle, for which sobriety is a cornerstone. The overarching goal should be a healthy relationship with alcohol—moderate drinking or no consumption at all, if alcohol proves an irrepressible temptation. Feel free to customize, setting a schedule and routine that fits your lifestyle and goals. There are many paths to sobriety. You just want to make sure you're prioritizing your health and wellbeing with each step.- Always stay open (you likely haven't even thought of the best)
- Take each challenge as an opportunity; you'll be better after you conquer.
- Cherish the three Ps: people, planet, and principle.
- Know the Source always provides strength
- Only make time for those who would give time to you
- Go outside your comfort zone; you'll be amazed by your new boundaries!
- Pinpoint the 3 things you need most—and never compromise
- Help whenever you can
- Each moment, nurture your whole self: physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually
- Take a step to leave the planet better than you found it
principle is this honoring?; 2) Am I passionate about this?; and 3) Will this allow me to be true to myself and my purpose? If you can't answer yes to all three, it's not worth taking. The decision will not always be popular; actually, some may even dismiss, or deride, the step you're taking. That's irrelevant. All you need to please is yourself and the Source. This may seem selfish; but, the better you are to yourself, the better you can be to the people around you, and to the planet. Through your Dry Januarys or your Sober Octobers, pursue the principle, and chase the promise. You'll turn your best year into your best life,7 Comments
Cyrus Pinto
I've been waiting for this ;-) I'm doing Damp January. My motivation is saving some money. And, I'm aiming for #9: "Each moment, nurture your whole self." I'm ready for the year.
Seminal Wellness Team
We know you are Cyrus. Make 2024 your best year yet!
Brad Ritcher
Psilocybin, "magic mushrooms," is also a great alcohol alternative. It also helps with anxiety and depression. It's working well for me.
Seminal Wellness Team
Thanks for the reply Brad. Yes, psilocybin would be a worthy alcohol alternative. We're glad it's working for you; and, it's been working for many. The research is growing regarding psilocybin's positive mental, and physical, effects. Some have reported significant side effects from psilocybin though; so, we just recommend consulting with your health care practitioner before use, and purchasing from a trusted provider. Please also monitor your reaction after the first dose when deciding whether to continue with the treatment. Whether opting for psilocybin, or another alcohol alternative, we caution everyone not to overindulge; please use substances responsibly. We support all organic treatments that promote wellbeing. Thanks again for the input.
Nora Greenberg
I can go without the alcohol (took some time). But, I don't know about the couple of hours a week to yourself. I'm a mom, I work full-time... How can I do that?
Seminal Wellness Team
Right Nora, with how crazy life is, and continues to get, getting a couple of hours a week to yourself seems impossible. But, if you take it bit by bit, it isn't. You don't have to meditate for two hours on a Saturday (that's great for anyone who can); you can take a few moments each day. Play a game or read for 15 minutes at lunch. Wash your hair three times weekly, instead of just once (get up a little earlier and air dry to stay within your schedule, keep it green, and maximize results). You don't have to do the 5K, but take the train or the bus to work so you need to walk at least a block or two back home (some of the best ideas on the team have come from walks and runs). You can add the minutes for that walk to the time for your daily workout. By the end of the week, all these will sum to at least 2 hours. It's all about doing something--nurturing yourself a little--each day. We hope this helps.
Kate Mwebasa
Are there healthy drinks that have similar effects to alcohol?
Seminal Wellness Team
Kate, there are ;-) Kombucha can give you a kick. CBD- and herb-infused drinks can also give you a buzz. Drinks with certain adaptogens and functional drinks--those that are formulated to give you a buzz or energize you--are also effective alcohol substitutes. There are many choices. You don't want to become reliant on or addicted to any of these drinks however. Just use them, selectively, to get a pick-me-up or to wind yourself down. Thanks for the question.
Manuel Garcon
How can friends help with maintaining sobriety or reaching 2024 goals?
Seminal Wellness Team
Manuel, friends are key. And, one way friends are so critical is they provide accountability. As was mentioned in the post, they'll call you out when needed. But, you can also hold them to account, about their own sobriety, savings, etc. goals. The best thing would be have you, and your circle, lay out their goals, and do gentle check-ins--like with a group text--on a weekly or monthly basis (whatever schedule works for all of you). You may even buddy up a certain friend to serve as each other's coach. We all need to work on things; so, everyone should be held accountable. Friends are there to support, motivate, and keep you on track. Thanks for the question Manuel.
Darika Sanyapal
It's the 15th, and my resolution, "commitment," hasn't been broken! It has to do with taking time to reflect. I think I can do this. Happy MLK Day!
Seminal Wellness Team
You got this Darika. Congratulations on a successful couple of weeks, and you'll make it through the year. Just remember how important this goal--how important you are--even when potential distractions, pressures, loom. And, even when it gets chaotic, frantic--or even disastrous--you have a moment to collect your thoughts, and reconnect with yourself. This allows you to be your best for you, first, and those around you. Stay fierce. Happy MLK Day!
Nkechi Onwugele
I made it through dry January! I'm also putting more focus on my finances. I have ambitious savings goals for this year. Honestly, getting through this month makes me feel like I can do it. Thanks!
Nkechi Onwugele
You got this Nkechi :-) Your progress is so encouraging! The willpower you showed against alcohol will translate across all areas of your life. Yes, with that diligence,.you'll not only meet, but exceed your financial goals. First steps to a billion ;-) Congratulations on a victorious 1st month! Update us, around the holidays, on a triumphant year :-D
