It's Not About the Alcohol

EP179 Minisode: How to handle the fear of "going back"


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In this episode, Colleen shares her thoughts on the common fear of reverting to old habits—even when you're making positive changes. Instead of fighting those nagging thoughts, she explains how to step back, notice them for what they are, and gently shift your response. It’s all about staying present, being kind to yourself, and gradually creating new, healthier patterns.

Key Takeaways:
  • Understanding Fear:

    • Fear is just a feeling driven by old stories about not being able to stick with change.
    • Recognizing these thoughts can help you break free from self-doubt.
  • Staying Present:

    • When the familiar fear creeps in, the trick is to stay in the moment rather than getting lost in past habits or worries about the future.
  • A Gentle Reminder to Yourself:

    • A simple, kind gesture—like placing a hand on your heart—can help comfort you and remind you that you're on the right path.
  • Building New Habits:

    • Instead of letting old thoughts take over, you can choose a new response that reinforces positive change and builds stronger, healthier neural pathways.
Actionable Steps:
  1. Notice the Fear:

    • When you catch yourself thinking, “I can’t stick with this,” pause and recognize it as just a thought, not the truth.
  2. Stay in the Now:

    • Bring yourself back to the present moment. Ask, “What’s really happening right now?” rather than what might have happened before.
  3. Show Yourself Some Love:

    • Give yourself a little break: place your hand on your heart and say something kind like, “It’s okay, I’m here for you.”
  4. Choose a New Response:

    • Decide to respond differently. Instead of reinforcing old habits, choose to create a new, positive pathway in your mind.

Homework Bring self-awareness to the moments where familiar fears rear their ugly head. As they strike you, pull back...

  • Pause, breathe, and notice the thought for what it is—a habit from the past.
  • Give yourself a gentle reminder of your progress by placing your hand on your heart and speaking kindly to yourself.
  • Notice how choosing a different response can make a big difference in how you feel.

 

Click here to BOOK A DISCOVERY CALL. If you’re ready to fully commit to your personal growth and do the work to get emotionally sober (side effects include an 80 percent reduction in drinking),You'll walk away from our call with a clear understanding of how to get the skills you need to transform your life.

Do you want help from Colleen with a situation you’re struggling with? Click here to submit your question for Colleen’s NEW Q& A episodes. Your name will not be mentioned on air! 

 

—Want daily updates from me? Find me on TikTok @hangoverwhisperer and IG @thehangoverwhisperer  

Click here to TAKE THE QUIZ: Do you have a drinking problem or a thinking problem?

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It's Not About the AlcoholBy Colleen Kachmann

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