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, these could now be the Transition Twenties. Because everything must be different; we are all in one big transition event.

On our own little square meter, we have more or less lined up the good intentions. Eating healthier, quitting smoking, consuming less alcohol, and exercising more are standard in the top ten. In January, encouraged by media campaigns and challenges, we will engage in the battle.

Struggle? Challenge!
That sounds intense to start with and maybe even discouraging. 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 already sounds better than struggle!

When the penny drops
Conviction is a remarkable phenomenon. Or the step before that, awareness, the moment when the penny drops, when you suddenly see it, feel it in your whole body: I'm quitting, 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 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 at some point. Think back to the moment when it all clicked for you. Why are you doing this again? Consider what you have already gained, what benefits are within reach, and seek help if needed. Acupuncture is a good support in this process. Make an appointment with an acupuncturist near you. Also useful: below you will find a link to Acupressure for withdrawal symptoms. The Stoptober blog offers some tips for difficult moments.

Get inspired 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 (listen, for example, via Spotify)
Recommended: episode 7: Alcohol was that safe cocoon for Henriette

You Tube: keyword addiction
For example, this quite fun animation: how addiction works
And take a look at the University of the Netherlands and of Flanders, and at Ted Talk
For example: Is it worth not drinking alcohol for a month?

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