If you have been wanting to reduce your alcohol intake but find yourself making excuses, a mindset coach has revealed how shifting your thinking can help. Renee Houtstra, from Edmonton, Canada, works with entrepreneurs to overcome limiting beliefs and has shared her insights exclusively with the Daily Mail.
Houtstra explains that the top reason people struggle to cut back on alcohol is fear of failure. 'Failure is subjective and means so many different things to different people,' she says. 'Being able to identify what it is about the failure that is preventing you from moving forward will be key to solving this problem.'
Another common excuse is lack of time, but Houtstra argues: 'Time isn't the problem, your priorities and desires are. Every "I can't" really means "It's not important enough to me." Understand that if you really wanted to do it you would find time.'
The coach also warns against people-pleasing, stating: 'People-pleasing isn't kindness, it's self-sabotage. Following through with your goals and desires and decisions that are right for you even if others get upset about it is the ultimate place to be.'
Houtstra notes that while values like loyalty and perfectionism are strengths, they can also hold you back. 'If you are loyal you may be staying loyal to the wrong people struggling to let them go,' she says. 'There needs to be a balance with your values.'
Finally, she advises being authentic: 'Wearing a mask feels professional, but it kills connection. If people never meet the real you, they won't remember you and connection is what actually gets you opportunities.'
