What steps can you take today to get closer to the life you imagine? Meri started drinking regularly in her twenties after a tough breakup. Since then, she has struggled to maintain a healthy relationship with alcohol. Now, in her late forties, she hopes to build a future where alcohol takes up less space in her thoughts and daily life. Lola is a busy mom who often feels tired and stressed at the end of the day. She uses alcohol to relax and “reward” herself for all her hard work. In this episode, Coach Mike helps both women explore their relationship with alcohol, understand the motivations behind their habits, and take steps toward a happier and more balanced life. In Meri’s session: - Using alcohol to deal with pain from a breakup - Imagining a healthier, happier version of herself - Focusing on small wins to feel more in control - Why change can feel uncomfortable at first - Being kind to herself while trying new habits - The value of investing time, money, and effort to grow - Viewing setbacks as a normal part of the journey - Embracing a future full of hope and possibilities In Lola’s session: - Why alcohol feels rewarding after a busy day - How alcohol influences energy levels over time - Shifting from just surviving to finding joy in daily life - Turning boredom into a chance to try new things - Making daily chores feel better with positive framing - Viewing parenting as a choice, not a chore - Discovering simple and fun ways to relax at home - Rethinking what it means to reward herself - Building a balanced and fulfilling life Mike Shennan is a certified Naked Mind Senior Coach. He was a long-time social drinker, and his drinking habits increased in his forties due to various life events. However, he has been alcohol-free since February 23, 2018. By sharing his personal experiences and using techniques from This Naked Mind, Mike supports clients who feel their drinking habits have grown as they age, helping them regain control and create a healthier relationship with alcohol. Learn more about Coach Mike: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/mike-shennan/  Related Episodes: EP 116: Reader Question – Does Alcohol Really Relax Us? https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-116-reader-question-alcohol-really-relax-us/  EP 358: Reader Question – Why Do I Reward Being Alcohol-Free with a Drink? https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-358-reader-question-why-do-i-reward-being-alcohol-free-with-a-drink/  EP 690: Reader’s Question – How Long Does It Take To Feel Better After Quitting Drinking? https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-690-readers-question-how-long-does-it-take-to-feel-better-after-quitting-drinking/  Ready to take the next step on your journey?  Visit https://learn.thisnakedmind.com/podcast-resources for free resources, programs, and more. Until next week, stay curious!