116. Action

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Hello, darling heart, and welcome to the drink less, live better podcast.

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This is the podcast that helps you to see that drinking less doesn't need to be stressful, lonely, or boring.

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I'm your host, Sarah Williamson, and I decided to have a year alcohol free as a little life experiment and haven't looked back.

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With my experience and training, I now help other people with their alcohol free or drink less adventures.

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You can find out more and sign up to my 5 day drink less challenge at drink less, live better.com.

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I'm here to tell you that you can relax, connect, and have fun without alcohol in your life.

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Join me here each week to find out how.

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The first two sections of my book, drink less, live better, are about awareness and acceptance. The third section is about action.

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We've noticed what isn't quite going according to plan.

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We've decided that we do want something to be different in our relationship with alcohol, and now, now is the time for action,

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lasting change, dare I even say it, transformation.

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Some people burst into this stage of their sobriety with all the enthusiasm.

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They are ready to throw the kitchen sink at it, to try anything and everything. Others take a slightly softer approach.

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Perhaps they view it as an experiment, a cautious adventure, a route needing careful and considered exploration.

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Whichever way you head into the action phase, here are some ideas you might find useful.

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Do take action, but, 1st, plan out what's really important to you, what you can delegate, and what you no longer need to do.

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Make some space in your life for the incoming actions.

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They're going to require time and energy. Okay. Ready? Go. Set some realistic goals.

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Break down those goals into smaller, more achievable steps.

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This way you'll have a road map to follow and a sense of progress along the way. Take small steps.

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Taking action doesn't mean you have to get everything perfect immediately. I like progress over perfection.

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Start and build momentum, and remember, consistency will be key. Seek some support.

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Don't be afraid to ask for help or seek support from other people.

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Talk to your friends, family, or find a trusted coach or mentor. Chat about your goals and challenges.

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Allow other people to offer you their advice, guidance, and encouragement if that's what you need. Speak kindly to yourself.

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Taking action involves stretching your comfort zone, and that might mean encountering setbacks along the way.

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Instead of being discouraged by any failure, see it as a learning opportunity to be kind to yourself. Learn from your mistakes.

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Adapt your approach, but keep moving forward.

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Celebrate your victories no matter how small. Acknowledge and celebrate each achievement.

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Recognising your progress and giving yourself credit will keep you motivated and boost your confidence.

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The small wins build the foundation for significant change. Stay focused and committed. Taking action does require discipline.

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Keep your goals in mind and stay focused on those steps you need to take.

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Be committed to your vision, and look after yourself.

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As you embark on making changes, don't forget to take really good care of yourself.

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Prioritise activities that rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul.

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Spend some time outside, practice meditation, or enjoy some hobbies. Learn from other people.

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Look for role models or individuals who have achieved what you aspire to, read their stories, listen to their interviews, or attend relevant events.

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Learning from others' experiences can provide valuable insights and inspiration to keep you motivated on your journey. Reflect and clarify.

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Take some time to to reflect on what exactly is working for you and why.

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Also, acknowledge what isn't working for you.

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Is it a specific a recurring pattern, or a general dissatisfaction?

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Be honest with yourself and try to identify the root causes.

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This clarity will help you direct your efforts effectively. Embrace the process. Finally, remember that change takes time. Don't expect instant results.

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Enjoy the journey and the growth that comes with it.

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Each step you take brings you closer to that life that you desire.

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Know that from time to time life gets a bit, well, life y.

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They'll likely be curveballs or unexpected occurrences, and you'll have to navigate these bits as well as the good bits.

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Know that you can, and you will. I don't say that lightly.

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Taking action starts with acknowledging that things can be better and having the willingness to make a change.

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So go ahead, embrace the opportunity to take the actions for creating the life you really want.

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I really hope you believe in yourself.

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I certainly believe in you and your capacity to change.

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Thank you so much for listening in this week.

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We are getting closer and closer to the publication date for my book.

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If you want to be amongst the first to hear all about it, please head to the show notes and find the link to hear about the book.

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You'll also see a link to a hidden podcast episode to help you with your 5 PM cravings, and you'll be able to read about my one to one coaching program.

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Next week is July, and I have launched my one to 1 dry July coaching program. That's easy for you to say.

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Find that in the show notes too. Thank you for listening in today.

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Do come back again next week, and PS, I believe in you.