Are You Drinking out of Habit as a Hospitality Professional?
By Phira
It’s extremely common for staff working in the restaurant industry to finish their shift and grab an alcoholic beverage to unwind.
Although this routine may be harmless at first, and using alcohol as a coping mechanism for stress, after years, it can become a habit that has grown into a full-blown addiction.
I’ve seen it throughout the years, some of my co-workers trying to get through their shift, as their hands begin to shake because of the dependence on the drug.
I’ve watched them, chug their beer so fast as their body feels the sigh of relief.
Unfortunately, I’ve had to witness those who are truly suffering because of the reliance and ingrained habit of drinking that has become their new normal.
Before they know it, everything about their social life revolves around alcohol.
It may seem difficult at first to have to unwind years of drinking, but it is possible. I’ve also witnessed many of my co-workers who have become sober or have significantly cut down, such as myself and live very productive, fulfilling lives.
The good news is that once you become aware of how much drinking is affecting you, only then will you begin to change your lifestyle.
“Change might not be fast and it isn’t always easy. But with time and effort, almost any habit can be reshaped.” — The Power of Habit
A habit is a regular, often unconscious behaviour or routine built through learning and repetition. With alcohol, breaking the habit is replacing it with healthier options.
When I began to change my unhealthy lifestyle, I replaced it with education and went back to school. For me, I was drinking constantly due to my environment, with working in the industry and my social crowd, which eventually I began to disconnect from.
I rebuilt my life and still had many old friends. Still, I was more aware now of the importance of choosing wisely when inviting someone new into my life, and of hanging out with what used to be drinking friends in a more sober environment, such as meeting up at a cafe or hitting the gym together.
To break the habit of drinking, you need to change your mindset around alcohol. But if you are dependent on it, you should seek professional help.
Beliefs about alcohol may include:
Life is dull, and alcohol makes it more interesting.
Drinking helps me relax after a shift.
Everyone enjoys drinking.
Falling asleep is easier.
It's easier to connect with others.
Life is boring with alcohol.l
The truth about alcohol:
The consumption of alcohol can increase anxiety and contribute to stress, including financial debt, strained relationships, and embarrassment.
The number of people who drink is not as high as you may think.
Alcohol is linked to several cancers, such as breast, liver and pancreas.
Interferes with the circadian rhythm, resulting in restless sleep.
Life can be dull, but it isn't boring. It only means less drama.
Alcohol can contribute to more severe substance abuse issues.
Changing your mindset and beliefs around alcohol can open up a world of fresh and enriching experiences that don't involve drinking.
By implementing healthy strategies to replace alcohol, you may find that cutting down or eliminating it is a benefit that is not worth ignoring.
If you are dealing with Alcohol Use Disorder, please seek professional help, but if you want to change your lifestyle through nutrition, feel free to contact me.
