Discover the transformative power of shifting your mindset in moments of struggle, on this week’s episode of The Big Drink Rethink. Anna addresses the frustration and demotivation that come with stumbling back into old drinking patterns. With insights from an experimental mindset and tips on self-compassion, she reframes setbacks not as failures but as crucial learning opportunities. We'll discuss strategies like measuring progress in percentages rather than days, focusing on gains over perfection, and the importance of self-determination. By the end of this episode, you'll be equipped with practical tools and a new perspective to keep moving forward on your path.

Here are the highlights:

03:28 Reflecting on experiences helps resolve internal conflicts about drinking, leading to better future choices.

09:21 Focusing on progress over perfection is essential, especially for perfectionists.

12:40 Journaling helps track progress, boosts motivation, and measures personal growth.

14:19 Focus on your own journey - comparison is the thief of joy.

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

86% of women don’t fully understand the impact of perimenopause and menopause. In this fascinating episode, host Anna Donaghey is joined by the inspiring Lauren Chiren, CEO of Women of a Certain Stage, to explore the complex interplay between alcohol and menopause. With a blend of personal anecdotes and eye-opening insights, they unpack how lifestyle choices can profoundly influence the menopausal journey. From hormonal upheavals to healthcare challenges and the essential need for education. Tune in as we explore how a mindful approach to alcohol can make a world of difference to managing menopause and reclaiming your well-being.

Here are the highlights:

1:36 Left career as a senior executive in the financial services industry

03:09 Created a menopause awareness conference that addressed workplace challenges.

06:47 Most women are unaware of menopause's significant impact.

13:02 Endocrinologists may lack menopause-specific training.

15:08 Misdiagnosed menopause led to unnecessary antidepressants.

18:15 Alcohol is often seen as good for stress relief despite menopause.

24:33 Focus on hydration, reduce alcohol, and eat natural foods.

33:21 Experiment with drinking less and taking breaks.

39:39 Find joy in movement; prioritise strength and flexibility.

43:46 Joy comes from interaction, freedom, community, and movement.

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Facebook: facebook.com/thebeliefscoach

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

About Lauren Chiren:

Lauren is an entrepreneur, passionate about supporting people to successfully navigate menopause. She provides evidence to the UK Parliament, sits on the BSI committee that created the landmark Standard on Menstruation, menstrual health and menopause, is a regular commentator in the media and is an award winning global motivational speaker, trainer & coach on executive women's wellbeing.

She left her senior role in financial services, in her early 40's believing that she was suffering from early-onset dementia. Imagine her surprise when her doctor informed her she had 'just' been through menopause?! Today she educates employers on why being menopause supportive is business savvy and supports high performing people to navigate the changes and challenges of all things hormonal, from monthly cycles to menopause. As a trusted expert, Lauren has helped thousands of executives, celebrities and athletes globally. She is qualified in psychology, mental health, nutrition, coaching, personal training

Can journalling help your sober journey? This episode Anna is taking a look at this transformative practice. Whether you're looking to reduce or quit drinking, or simply seeking a way to boost your mental and emotional well-being, this episode provides a comprehensive guide to get you started. We'll explore simple prompts, debunk perfectionist myths, and discuss the myriad benefits supported by research from reducing anxiety to improving overall health. With insights from historical figures and modern-day journalling advocates, like Claire Pooley, we'll show you how dedicating just a few minutes each day to journalling can become a happy habit.

Here are the highlights:

05:48 Journalling reduces anxiety, improves mood, processes trauma.

07:05 Gratitude journalling offers extensive mental and physical benefits.

11:40 Write about your feelings to heal and gain clarity.

14:28 Journal daily for self-reflection and personal growth.

21:31 Journalling with prompts: evolution and exploration.

23:13 Journalling offers fresh perspectives and self-advice.

28:06 Keep a journal close to capture thoughts, emotions.

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk