2024 Advice Series - December: "One is Too Many; 100 is Not Enough" (Billy Wilder, AA)

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Background

This month's thought or advice of the month comes from addiction circles, and I think it can be applicable to so many of us. It reminds us of patterns of behavior that stem from a place of lack or lack of control. We drink more than we intended; it's the holidays after all! We over eat; we deserve this meal. We go "all in" with a new activity, outfits and all; it's good for us! It Doesn't matter if the behavior is drinking alcohol, shopping, eating sugar or food in general, sex/porn, numbing agents that are illegal or come with a prescription, or even exercise. One can be too many, for often we don't stop there. One hundred is not enough, which means we often aren't satiated with a little. We often just want more. All things can be good, and all things can be too much.

Advice

How is this applicable to you? How does it apply to the generally secular holiday season? Why does it even matter?

This saying, in my mind, reminds us to first find ease or relief, before choosing a drink or sweet or whatever. Find ways that will not only bring a better feeling, but will also provide you a real comfort or reconnection to yourself. Once we feel relaxed, calm or proud, then decide what is right for you at that time. For example, you get stressed at work and are on "people and party overload". You have learned that if you take a walk at lunch at work, you feel better. Don't stop just because it is cooler outside or it's the holidays. Maintain your regular grounding and centering practices year round, and especially during the holiday season or special occasions. Moving into a pattern of saying "holiday time, so sweets don't have calories!" or "I need a drink!" makes you more likely to eat or drink more. Instead, try saying, "I need to get my walk in, and then I will decide if I want a sweet". It helps you maintain your balance and eat and drink more reasonably. You still enjoy the special occasion, but you are less likely to be forever unsatiable.