Ever notice how the craving doesn’t wait til you get home? How it shows up the second the day gets heavy? Coaches Cole and Hayley sit down with Beth and Patrick to unpack what’s really happening under the urge to drink, and how to respond with support instead of self-criticism. Along the way, they answer a question so many of us have asked: What is the best way to deal with stress without alcohol? Beth learns a new way to understand her cravings, and Patrick builds momentum with small, realistic steps that stick.

In Beth's session:

Why work stress makes weekday cravings feel so intense

The firefighter analogy: seeing the part of you that reaches for alcohol as a protector, not an enemy

Replacing "control" with "connection" as a new way to approach cravings

A somatic exercise to sit with difficult emotions

How setting a check-in timer throughout the day can prevent cravings from building up

Building confidence by stacking small wins and evidence that you can ride out tough moments

Learning the best way to deal with stress without alcohol when panic hits at work

And more…

In Patrick's session:

Why retirement unexpectedly led to more drinking and weight gain

The difference between behavior-based and emotion-based goals

How micro commitments create lasting change without overwhelm

Experimenting with yoga, pickleball, martial arts, and guitar as alcohol-free alternatives

Using the "closer or farther" question as a pattern interruption before happy hour

The best way to deal with stress without alcohol, when boredom and habit take over

And more…

Cole Harvey is a certified Naked Mind Senior Coach. For years, he felt lost and used alcohol as a way to cope, until he decided to go alcohol-free and focus on finding his purpose. Through curiosity, self-compassion, and adventure, he transformed his life. As a habit change and mindset coach, Cole helps men understand themselves, build better habits, and find meaning.

Learn more about Coach Cole: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/cole-harvey/

Hayley Scherders is a certified TNM Coach with training from the CAMH. Drawing from personal experiences, Hayley understands how tough change can be and provides a safe, compassionate, and judgment-free space where her clients can feel supported. She believes that with the right mindset, anyone can change their life at any time.

Learn more about Coach Hayley: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/hayley-scherders/

Episode links:nakedmindpath.com

Related Episodes:

Alcohol After 60 - Coaching Questions -  EP 418 - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-418-coaching-questions-with-scott-pinyard/

 Can You Stop Drinking Due To Work Stress - Alcohol Freedom Coaching - EP 803 - https://thisnakedmind.com/drinking-because-of-work-stress-e803/

Why do I end up drinking by myself whenever I am bored or stressed? - Reader Question - EP 594 - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-594-reader-question-why-do-i-end-up-drinking-by-myself-whenever-i-am-bored-or-stressed/

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!

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