Chapter 1: Understanding the Guzzler Mindset

In a book I encountered some time ago, possibly "Grit" by Angela Duckworth, the author examines the concept of habits, specifically addressing why certain individuals can moderate their behaviors while others are strictly “all or nothing.” This binary perspective resonated with me, revealing a lack of middle ground—only two categories of people.

While it's essential to recognize that human behavior is complex and context-dependent, the simplicity of these two classifications provided me with immediate relief. I have often grappled with moderation across various aspects of my life, always striving for more. For a long time, I perceived this as a personal flaw, a sign that I was somehow inadequate or unable to manage my life effectively.

Upon reading that passage, I felt a wave of reassurance wash over me. I realized I wasn’t alone; many others share my experiences.

My relationship with beverages—particularly alcohol—is a prime example of this all-or-nothing mentality. I consider myself a GUZZLER! Years ago, I made the decision to stop drinking soda entirely. If there’s a drink in front of me, I can’t help but consume it rapidly, regardless of what it is. Even water—my glass is perpetually refilled at restaurants, often more than anyone else’s. I find it challenging to refrain from drinking whatever is available, whether it’s an oral fixation, a nervous habit, or simply a source of comfort.

This tendency extends to my cravings for sweets, which have resurfaced since I stopped drinking alcohol. Thankfully, I’ve managed to avoid indulging in both simultaneously!

These two areas—alcohol and sweets—pose significant challenges for me. If they’re present in my home, I inevitably consume them. For instance, I can’t keep cookies around because I will inevitably devour them, and I obsess over them until they’re gone. My children often roll their eyes when they request treats like Oreos, only to receive a firm refusal that feels as though they’ve asked for something dangerous.

I’m uncertain why I didn’t adopt the same level of vigilance regarding alcohol over the past nine years. However, I’ve committed to staying alert now. I haven’t even allowed myself a mere sip of someone else’s drink, which I might have done in the past while attempting to quit.

When I’m in social situations where alcohol is present, I quickly secure a safe drink, often choosing sparkling water like La Croix or plain club soda—something I can sip slowly. On particularly challenging days, I might even opt for coffee.

If you identify with being a guzzler—an all-or-nothing individual—it’s crucial to pinpoint the areas in which you tend to overindulge. This tendency may not solely relate to food or drink; it could manifest in work, relationships, or hobbies. There are countless pursuits that can become all-consuming if we’re not careful.

The challenge lies in avoiding the temptation to replace one unhealthy addiction with another. While the new focus may not be inherently harmful, when approached with an all-or-nothing mindset, it can spiral into an addiction itself, which is never beneficial.