#111 Decided AF

This week I dive deep into the concept of "flow over force" when it comes to changing habits, particularly around alcohol use. I share my approach that moves away from shame-based, punitive methods and instead focuses on understanding our triggers, building self-compassion, and creating safety within ourselves. Drawing from my experience as a neurodivergent mum, I explore how traditional recovery models often fail and introduce my "third way" method of approaching behavioural change.Key Takeaways: Punitive and shame-based approaches to habit change don't work, especially for neurodivergent individuals and those with trauma Alcohol is often a coping mechanism that helps people feel safe or escape difficult emotions Neurodivergent parents, particularly mothers, face unique challenges that can lead to using alcohol as a way to find space and relief True change comes from understanding your triggers and learning to be compassionate with yourself The goal is not to "fight" against a behaviour, but to understand why you're using it and create alternative ways to meet those needs Interceptive awareness and learning to recognise and sit with emotions is crucial for sustainable change My 30-day Aussie Alcohol Experiment offers a supportive, non-judgmental approach to exploring your relationship with alcohol Episode links & Resources Learn more about Emma Gilmour at: www.hoperisingcoaching.com Follow Emma Gilmour on insta @hoperisingcoaching My Upcoming Coached Events & Programs: Join The GREAT Aussie Alcohol Experiment - LIVE June 2025 here: https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/the_great_aussie_alcohol_experiment Join Emma's VIP ELITE experience here: https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/offers/k7AXMNPG  Join Emma's Be The Lighthouse membership here: https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/bethelighthouse  Get Emma's Visualisation audio download at https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/northstarvisualisation  Emma's Awareness worksheets for people wanting to prepare prior to taking a break from drinking or reduce their drinking by being more mindful about what and why they drink https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/awareness-worksheets-opt-in  Emma's 5 Day Alcohol Reset for people looking to take a quick reset https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/fivedayreset  Join The Self-Paced Great Aussie Alcohol Experiment at https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/aae  Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/midlife-af-podcast/id1649673705