Top tips for Dry January

It’s the beginning of another year which can mean only one thing: Dry January. Many use this as an attempt to undo some of the damage from an indulgent festive season. For some, it’s launching into the new year, freshly resolved. Whatever your reason for cutting down, there’s ways of making it easier.

Here are my top teetotal tips:

1.    Plan how long you’d like to stay dry and write it in your diary. What events do you have coming up? Form contingency plans.

2.    Tell your nearest and dearest, they may even join in. Some of them might not ‘get it’, but do what you think is best.

3.    Fill your fridge with your favourite soft drinks. I like coconut water as a treat (cheapest from Lidl) and lots of herbal teas. Try some new blends.

4.    Hang out with other people who are not drinking. Go for a walk to an indie cafe or market and enjoy weekend mornings.

5.    Observe any changes in your body, and also your mind. What is your thought process associated with the enjoyment of alcohol? Are your jeans really feeling looser already? Be sober curious.

6.    Remember it’s not the end of the world if you fall off the wagon. Many have. If you want to stay dry or drink less, you can. It’s entirely your choice.

7.    If you’re really struggling, ask for help or look online. Useful resources include https://alcoholchange.org.uk/ There’s also lots of QuitLit out there nowadays. “Quit Like a Woman: The Radical Choice to Not Drink in a Culture Obsessed with Alcohol” by Holly Whittaker is one of my favourites. Be a rebel.

Drop PT Tracy a line if you’re curious about how to be slightly less soggy and slightly more motivated to live a little healthier… and have more energy!