Why do we often sabotage our own sobriety despite our best intentions? In this episode of The Big Drink Rethink, your host Anna explores the perplexing nature of self-sabotage, a challenge faced by many seeking to reshape their relationship with alcohol. Anna offers a thoughtful exploration of what drives these destructive patterns and provides actionable strategies to break free from the cycle. 

Listeners will discover insights into the tug-of-war between the conscious desire for change and the subconscious fear of the unknown. With a focus on practical steps and the power of support systems, this episode is an essential listen for those striving to overcome self-sabotage and achieve lasting sobriety.

Here are the highlights:

00:00 Introduction

04:09 An internal conflict between staying sober and fear of change leads to risky behaviors and romanticising past drinking.

08:11 Fear of change and identity loss can make overcoming drinking challenging.

11:20 Plan for resistance, challenge fears, question them, and consult your future self to overcome change.

14:39 A first sip of alcohol triggers dopamine release.

18:30 Positive emotions can trigger drinking due to learned behaviours

20:32 Observe your thoughts about drinking, like a scientist.

24:43 Have a plan to resist cravings.

27:59 Triggers are opportunities to learn; journal, forgive, and recommit..

30:31 Take it one day at a time, break old cycles gradually.

To further explore your relationship with alcohol, check out Anna’s programme, The Big Drink Rethink Experiment:  https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/the-big-drink-rethink-experiment

For the free resources accompanying this series, please head to https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/registration

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk