Chapter 6. Setting goals.
The decision to reduce or stop using substances or gambling is a personal choice. There is no right or wrong answer; it depends on your individual circumstances and what is best for you.
If you decide to reduce your use of substances or gambling, it is important to set specific goals and limits for yourself. For example, you can set a limit on how much you use or gamble per week, or decide to only use or gamble in certain situations or with certain people. It is important to be realistic and honest with yourself about what you can handle and what your triggers are.
If you decide to quit completely, it is important to have a support system in place. This can be friends, family or health professionals who can help you through the withdrawal process and provide emotional support. It may also be helpful to seek therapy or counseling to address any underlying issues that have contributed to your substance use or gambling addiction.
Choosing to reduce or stop using substances or gambling is a courageous and positive step toward a healthier and happier life. It may not always be easy, but with persistence and support, it is possible to overcome addiction and achieve your goals.
Here are some additional tips for setting goals:
By following these tips, you can set yourself up for success in the best way possible.
What do you want to achieve? Set yourself a goal. Reachable and realistic.
Vague goals are less effective and can make it difficult to measure progress.
It's important to choose a goal that you can realistically achieve. Going from excessive drinking or drug use to total abstinence overnight may not be possible for everyone.
Your goal should be challenging but achievable. Starting with small goals and gradually increasing them can be a good approach.
It's important to think about the benefits of achieving your goal, as well as any potential drawbacks or challenges you may encounter along the way.
Having a specific timeline in mind can help you stay on track and motivate you to achieve your goal.
There may be times when you struggle to achieve your goal. Plan for these setbacks and have strategies to help you get back on track.
Choose a goal that is important to you and in line with your values and priorities.
It can be helpful to have support from friends, family or a professional to help you stay motivated and accountable.
Celebrate small wins along the way to keep you motivated and positive.
As you progress towards your goal, it's important to regularly re-evaluate and adjust your plan as needed to ensure you stay on track and continue to make progress.
Choose next for alcohol, drugs or gambling. You can fill it in more than once. And can also be used for your smoking habits.
Choose for quitting or using less. Cutting down first and then stopping can also work. Talk to your carers and group members about what is achievable and about the medical risks.
Drinking
Stopping
I stop drinking on:
For a minimum of:
Less
I drink less from:
I drink a maximum of:
I drink per week a maximum:
My alcoholfree days are:
For a minimal of:
Drugs
Namely:
Stopping
I want to stop using:
I want to do this for:
Less
Im using less from:
The maximum a day:
Im using a maximum a week:
My drugsfree days are:
For a minimum of:
Gambling
Namely:
Stopping
I want to stop gambling:
For a minimum of:
Less
I gamble less starting:
I gamble maximum a day:
I gamble a maximum a week of:
My gamblefree days are:
For a minimum of: