Each of us has our own unique way of dealing with stress. Some exercise, some argue and some turn to substances that help them feel more relaxed…or at least forget their troubles momentarily.

Substance abuse is a serious topic, and it’s one we should be serious about fixing.

* * * * *
We all remember that person that had one too many during a corporate function or at a networking event. One thing for sure is that you don’t need to read a study to confirm that alcoholism and drug dependency are on the rise and becoming more visible. Although abuse is a common occurrence when the economy is down, it is not the answer to life’s problems. I’ve noticed more people drinking during the day and night, many to drown their sorrows from the pressure of declining and/or failed business.

From a professional standpoint, I know alcohol abuse deteriorates the workplace, families and personal productivity. Most professionals seem to believe a weekend binge has no effect on their personal or professional performance. Most happy hour participants seem to believe that drinking until you drop is acceptable in today’s society and has no bearing on personal and professional life. My goal is not to judge anyone, but to bring awareness to a problem that which can be solved-if people want to. I’m sure of one thing: all of the dots are connected.

I will admit that this economy caught me off guard, and I’ve been scrambling to find alternative sources for new business growth. I also realized that my personal consumption of alcohol was increasing both at home and in social situations. What was more dramatic was the fact that a number of friends also seemed to be indulging at an increased rate right along with me, some taking it to the point of no return, or what I deemed “the blackout,” a state of drunkenness where you simply pass out. Someone asked me the other day, “Are you stressed out with this down economy? You seem to be able to mask it well if you are.” My honest answer was yes, though there is nothing I can do about the economy; there is, however, a lot I can do about my own behavior. If I didn’t make some changes there, things would get worse. Most dependencies are progressive, and they can rapidly spin out of control.

The question, then, is how do you know if you have reached a point where you are out of control? How do you know whether or not you are functionally dependent? A chemical dependency exists when you drink or use a chemical substance to alter a state of mind and body to a point that you become both physically and psychologically dependent upon it. It is not based on the number of drinks or substances, it is based on honesty. The best way to understand whether or not problems exist is to focus in on the phrase “an altered state of being”. Stress, anxiety, insecurities, shame and guilt are sometimes factors in why people seek an altered state of being. Liquid courage is one of the best ways to describe the effects of alcohol. The reason we need courage is to overcome fear, my acronyms for which are: F**k Everything And Run, Face Everything And Recover and False Events Appearing Real. Alcohol and other substances can give you a false sense of courage by hiding any consequences for one’s actions.

What’s the Solution Besides Alcohol?

From a personal standpoint, I’ve decided to truly focus on what I can control. Yes, I will be real with you and admit I’m stressed and find fear creeping into my mental environment, but I choose not to participate in a fear-based mentality. I must be a bit strange because I have an appreciation for stress and pressure. It gives me the opportunity to grow and get stronger. I’ve learned that I can’t change yesterday, but I can handle what’s going on in the moment.

What can I do now? I highly recommend Eckhart Tolle’s book the Power of Now. My Now is my state of being in the present, which is accepting where I am and understanding I’m on a journey. My Now is being as healthy as possible by working out and eating right every moment I am able. My Now is helping those around me to feel good about themselves at every opportunity I get. My Now is to connect spiritually with my higher power at every moment. My Now is to realize that everything is as it needs to be in that moment. My Now is not to judge, but bring conscious awareness to a progressive problem that could be affecting someone you know.

We all have challenges and obstacles to overcome. That’s the journey of life. It builds strength, awareness, character, confidence and experience. In turn, that’s how we help and support one another. You deserve to live every aspect of your life in a whole and healthy and optimal way. The only thing you have to do is be honest with yourself. Look at your behavior. Do you need a change?

Please forward this message with love to anyone you believe can benefit from this knowledge.

* * *Next Issue* * *

In our next issue, I will bring to you the fundamentals of over-the-top service excellence, “Lessons from Alma – A Housekeeper for the Stars.”