The Challenge: January!

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Posted on 02/01/2020 in Current Affairs

The New Year has begun! We have rolled into the new Twenties over the oil balls. After the Roaring Twenties of the previous century, it could now be the Transition Twenties. Because everything must change; we are all in one big transition event.

On our own little square meter, we have more or less lined up the resolutions. Eating healthier, quitting smoking, less alcohol, and more exercise are standard in the top ten. In January, encouraged by media campaigns and challenges, we will fight.

Struggle? Challenge!
That sounds intense and maybe even discouraging to start with. Does it have to be a fight then? Let's be honest, breaking habits, overcoming an addiction, that does require something from you. Conviction for example, and willpower, asking for help or support, finding a buddy to take on the challenge together.
Ah, challenge! That sounds better than struggle!

When the penny drops
Conviction is a remarkable phenomenon. Or the step before that, the awareness, the moment when the penny drops, when you suddenly see it, feel it in your whole body: I'm done with this, I'm going to do it differently. Sometimes it's triggered by something you read, something someone says, an event, a TV broadcast, a podcast, an interview. Something that strikes a chord with you, laying the foundation on which your conviction, solid as a rock, can stand. Then making a decision for yourself suddenly becomes the most logical thing you can do. A decision that you fully support and will continue to support! That's what keeps you going.

Acupuncture and acupressure
That doesn't mean there won't be a difficult moment. Then think back to the moment when it clicked for you. Why are you doing this again? Consider what you have already gained from it, what benefits are within reach, and if necessary, call in reinforcements. Acupuncture is a good support in this process. Make an appointment with an acupuncturist near you. Also handy: below you will find a link to Acupressure for withdrawal symptoms. The Stoptober blog provides some tips for difficult moments.

Looking for inspiration to make the penny drop?

Trimbos Institute - Prof. dr. Erik Scherder on alcohol
Unanesthetized - podcast series by Erik Jan Harmens on alcohol and other addictive substances (for example, available on Spotify)
Recommended: episode 7: Drink was that safe cocoon for Henriette

You Tube: keyword addiction
For example, this quite nice animation: how does an addiction work
And have a look at the University of the Netherlands and of Flanders, and at Ted Talk
For example: Does it make sense to not drink alcohol for a month?

Dry muscles.nl - consequences of quitting smoking
Gezondheidsnet.nl - quitting smoking action plan