Happy Friday Pausers. I just wanted to get on here and give you a quick update on my week. I’m happy to say that alcohol didn’t hold much place in my brain this week. I’ve now become acutely aware that situations, like last weekend, may arise again. I have a “toolbox” for such moments and I think it needs to be updated. In my group, Women for Sobriety, we were told to create a toolbox. It is a plan or set of strategies to circumvent triggers or moments of temptation. This plan should be written down. The reason is when cravings or anxiety hit, the brain goes into fight or flight mode and clear thinking shuts down. This is the moment that you take out that sheet of paper and read your plan and remind your brain of healthier coping strategies.

Unfortunately last weekend I did not pull mine out. Instead I went into fight or flight mode hence the decision to pour a glass. One would think that after 2 and half years, I would be better adept to these types of situations. But I was reminded that I’m human and there is no amount of space between myself and alcohol that is safe. So today I will revisit and update my plan.

I’ll be back next week unless I have something new and exciting to report!

So as always, let’s pause, breathe, and embrace the journey.