4 steps to finding balance

Need help to get on the right path to moderation? Try these top tips

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4 steps to finding balance

1. Have a period of abstinence

โ€˜Stop drinking for at least three months to break the habit,โ€™ says Chivers. โ€˜The longer the break, the easier it is to develop a more moderate approach once youโ€™re ready to drink occasionally.โ€™

2. Wear an elastic band

To alter a pattern of behaviour, wear an elastic band on your wrist. โ€˜Whenever you feel an urge to do something youโ€™d rather not, flick the band to briefly change your physiology and remind you of your intentions,โ€™ advises Renson.

3. Plan ahead

โ€˜Carefully working out where, when, and with whom youโ€™re going to consume alcohol โ€“ and exactly how much โ€“ is a crucial part of successfully achieving moderation,โ€™ explains Chivers.

4. Be kind to yourself

If you succumb to a behaviour youโ€™re trying to stop, donโ€™t beat yourself up. โ€˜You can start your day again at any moment,โ€™ says Renson. โ€˜Set aside the inner โ€œcritical parentโ€ voice and tell yourself you will succeed. This boosts your sense of self-efficacy.โ€™

Read our feature on the secrets of moderation here

Photograph: iStock

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