Feel Good Alcohol-Free with Lindsay Hennekey Episode 43: How To Stay Alcohol-Free After Dry January
Jan 14, 2026
Discover how to sustain your alcohol-free journey after Dry January. Lindsay highlights the return of old patterns once structure fades, emphasizing the need for new responses to the 'just one' thought. She shares insights on practicing choices in social settings, reframing mistakes as learning experiences, and building confidence through repetition. Learn why planning for the transition into February is crucial to prevent slipping back. Embrace a sober lifestyle beyond a temporary break!
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Why Dry January Feels Effective
- Dry January succeeds because it removes alcohol as an option but doesn't change underlying patterns.
- The month provides structure and clear rules, which reduces nightly negotiation with yourself.
Lindsay's Breaks That Didn't Stick
- Lindsay describes her repeated cycles of taking breaks and quickly returning to old drinking patterns.
- She explains that structure felt safe but didn't change the underlying behavior.
Old Patterns Reactivate Fast
- After a break the old neural patterns remain and will reactivate when alcohol returns.
- Pausing drinking doesn't erase the brain's familiar, automatic response to alcohol.