Stop Cuddling the Problem
You’ve had the quiet “maybe I need to stop” thought more times than you can count.
You’ve noticed how alcohol isn’t actually relaxing you anymore—it’s just making you tired, foggy, and flat the next day.
So you read the quit-lit books. Listened to ALL the podcasts. Even Googled “how to cut down on drinking” at 2am while promising yourself never again.
And yet… nothing really changes.
Because as much as you don’t like what alcohol is doing to you—
The idea of living without it?
That’s terrifying.
Here’s what happens next (and if this sounds familiar, you’re not alone):
You start minimising the damage.
“It’s not that bad. I’m still functioning.”
You maximise the loss.
“But what would I do on a Friday night?”
“How would I cope when I feel anxious or low?”
You’re stuck in the middle. Knowing it’s not working… but unsure how to let it go.
That’s problem cuddling.
What Problem Cuddling Sounds Like:
Phrases like:
“I’ll cut back next week.”
“I just need to get through this busy period.”
“It’s not like I drink every night.”
“I’ve quit before. I just need the right time.”
“I don’t even know who I’d be without it.”
You tell yourself you’re just easing in. That you’re getting yourself ready.
But deep down? You’re just stalling.
Because part of you is still clinging to the idea that alcohol is helping you get through life—even when it’s actually making things harder.
3 Self-Coaching Questions to Get Honest With Yourself
🤔 What is alcohol actually doing for me right now?
Not what it used to do.
Not what it promises to do.
What it’s actually doing—now.
Is it helping you cope?
Or is it just delaying the thing you don’t want to feel?
🤔 What story am I telling myself about what I’ll lose if I quit?
Be honest.
Are you imagining a life with no joy, no fun, no chill-out time?
Or are you scared of not knowing who you’ll be without that glass in your hand?
Write it down. Say it out loud - to yourself or someone you trust.
Because becoming aware of the story you’re telling yourself is the first step to changing it.
🤔 If I trusted myself to feel uncomfortable for a wee bit—what would I do next?
Because yes—change is uncomfortable.
But you’ve done uncomfortable before.
And this time? You’re doing it for you.
Thinking about changing isn’t the same as changing.
Processing your feelings isn’t the same as making a decision.
You don’t have to fix everything overnight.
You don’t have to be fearless or perfect.
But at some point - and maybe this is ‘Thee Moment’—you stop overthinking and start acting on what you already know to be true.
You’ve got more strength than you give yourself credit for.
You’ve just been wrapping it in a blanket of overthinking.
And when you stop cuddling the problem?
That’s when things finally start to shift.
Need Help Taking That First Step?
📥 Download The 5 Step Alcohol-Free Reset—it’s free, practical, and gives you a simple plan to get clear, calm and back in control.
📞 Or if you want real support from someone who’s walked this road—I’m here.
Book a free discovery call. No pressure. Just a conversation that could change everything.
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📝 Disclaimer:
The content on this blog is for informational and inspirational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. I am an Accredited Sober Coach, Certified Nutrition Coach and Life Coach, but I am not a medical professional. If you are concerned about your health, mental wellbeing, or alcohol use, please speak with your GP or a qualified healthcare provider.
