It’s never too early for a new years resolution. In reality, it doesn’t have to be a new year to make a change for the better but, the turn of a new year always brings prosperity and hopes for change. This could be the reason millions of Americans participate in Dry January. 

What Is Dry January?

Dry January means just that, a full month of refraining from alcohol. Once the holiday season has gone and passed, many challenges themselves to give up alcohol for 31 days. This is a great chance to support someone you love who is in the midst of sobriety. Feeling like you’re not alone goes a long way, especially in recovery. 

Alcohol continues to be one of the major contributing factors in diseases like liver disease, heart disease, depression, and more. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, there are approximately 95,000 deaths annually from alcohol-related causes. 

How To Prepare For Dry January

Every goal written down has a higher success rate than those that stay as thoughts and ideas in our head. Map out your goal for the next 31 days. Not only is this a great time to challenge yourself but also invite others to take on the challenge with you. 

There is a rising growth of awareness among sober curiosity and sober living. It proves that you don’t have to experience an alcohol addiction to explore sobriety. People are starting to see and feel the health benefits of omitting alcohol from their lives.  

Top 5 Benefits From Dry January

  • Increased focus
  • Improved sleep patterns
  • Weight loss
  • Better hydration
  • Save money

Actions To Take For A Dry Year

As you bring in the new year, we’ve outlined some steps to success. First and foremost, remove any and all alcoholic beverages from your home. Just like when you start a new diet, you don’t keep the pantry stocked with your favorite sweet snacks. In this case, it’s truly out of sight out of mind mentality. Do yourself a favor and remove the temptation and you’ll thank yourself later. 

Just like the sweet tooth craving that needs to be satisfied, especially if you’re feeling withdrawal symptoms, there are alternatives. Brands like Lyre and Spiritless have truly mastered the mocktail concoction with alcohol-free vodka, champagne and gin. 

Plan ahead. This is crucial if you are the social drinker type. Bars and restaurants are beginning to lean towards sober curiosity and offer alcohol-free drinks. Spending a few minutes doing some research ahead of time could save you in the long run so you don’t wind up ordering a soda at the bar. 

Document and track your results daily as part of the reflection process. You’ll be surprised by the changes and improvements in your life. The benefits you feel may be motivation enough to turn dry January into a lifestyle change. 

Find Support And Community

As mentioned previously, the growing rate of sober curiosity is increasing each year. This is excellent news because it proves that you don’t have to walk this journey alone. A friend that can challenge you to better yourself is a friend that everyone needs. Invite someone to partake in dry January with you because it’s truly a gift that keeps on giving.