Alcoholism and the Words You Speak

When it comes to cutting back on our drinking one often overlooked key is the "outer talk" we use. That is, the words we speak out loud to other people, and the impact these same words have on us. To put it another way, your own voice in your own ears is more important and more influential to you than the voice of anyone else. This is especially true when one is attempting to overcome an alcohol or drug addiction.

Speak of Sobriety

When you talk about alcohol how do YOU sound to other people? Do you talk like someone who is confident in their decision to quit drinking? Is that how other people hear you? Or do you come across more as a wishful thinker? Someone who would like to be sober, and who would like good things to happen, but doesn't really expect them to?

When it comes to an alcohol addiction you should be very aware of how you speak to others. You must avoid statements such as "I'm trying to stop drinking" or "I could go for a drink." Instead, focus on positive self-empowering statements along the lines of "I no longer drink alcohol because I want to be healthy" or "I've decided to cut back on my drinking" that reflect your desire to live a healthier lifestyle.

The great thing about saying these self-empowering statements is that you are reinforcing your own resolve to quit drinking. This happens because the power of your own voice in your own ears reaffirms your commitment to change your life for the better. 

The Bottom Line

If you have decided to stop drinking alcohol then make sure you are speaking words to that effect. If you have decided to stop drinking during the week, and only drink moderately on the weekend, then make sure that in your statements to others you are stating exactly that. Basically, by making sure that your words match your intentions you are helping yourself keep a promise to yourself.

The very act of telling others that you drink less actually helps you achieve that goal. By telling others you are reinforcing your own resolve, and you will feel even more committed to your own health.