New Year, New Resolutions

For many individuals 2008 will be a year to forget due to the war, gas prices, unemployment and companies downsizing or closing. The hardships for many people and families have been overwhelming. Unfortunately many people cope with their struggles with a variety of addictions. So no matter what your addiction might be drugs, gambling, shopping, smoking, or alcohol you can kick the unwanted habit this year with a little help.

New Harvard University states that since the brain responds to pleasurable experiences you have to break the pattern. Here are a few recommendations to help you to do that:

• Seek help and create a support system.
• Set a quit date.
• Change your enviroment by removing those reminders and temptations from your immediate area. That may mean you will need to make new friends if you enjoyed your addiction with your current relationships.
• Learn new skills and activities that you can replace with your addiction when you feel the urge.
• Review your past attempts at quitting. What worked, what didn't and what led you back to your old habits. Then make the appropriate changes.

These are simple strategies that work. So believe in yourself that you can live a healthy, happy life without your addiction in 2009.

Happy New Year

Gina