If you’re nodding your head right now, we feel you. And so do more than 30 percent of our new clients who say they over-consume alcohol.
The question is: What does “too much” mean? It can be different for everyone.
Maybe you’re drinking two or three glasses of wine at night and wondering if you’re relying too much on alcohol to take the edge off. Or perhaps you don’t imbibe during the week, but drink to excess on the weekend.
Even if you don’t have what’s considered a “serious” problem, your drinking habits could be affecting your ability to lead a healthier lifestyle—by interfering with your sleep, affecting your judgement (“Hey everyone! Who wants late-night nachos??”), and stimulating your appetite.
Ask yourself: What’s one action you could take to feel a little better about your alcohol intake?

• Could you have two glasses tonight instead of three?
• Could you drink more slowly, so that one glass lasts longer?
• Could you have a glass of water between cocktails?

If your alcohol intake isn’t destroying your work or family life, you don’t necessarily have to slam on the brakes.
Ease yourself into it, and notice how you feel. Better awareness can result in better choices. 
For more help and how-to advice, check out: Would I be healthier if I quit drinking?

Are you seeing a theme emerge? Sure, this one’s related to “I don’t plan out meals” and “I eat out too much.” But it’s also slightly different because it’s specifically calling out the reason why: a lack of a key resource.
Now let’s be honest: There may be a lack of desire here, too, at least compared to activities you do have time for. And that’s okay.
After all, many people are on the move all day, making a living, commuting, and/or caring for others. You deserve some time to unwind, and if that means grabbing takeout so you can sink into your couch 30 minutes sooner, we get it.
But let’s go back to our continuum concept:

• If you’re making zero meals now, could you find time to make one meal each week?

• Or if you’re making three, could you find time to make four?

If you can make just one extra meal, you’ll be taking a positive action to change your behavior and improve your health. 
That’s how real, lasting transformation happens: one tiny step at a time, not by trying to change everything overnight.
So figure out what action you’re capable of now—even if it doesn’t seem like much—and try it out. Then practice it next week, too. As it becomes easier, ask yourself: “Could I add in another home-cooked meal?”
Remember: Progress, not perfection.
And for more ways to deal with a hectic lifestyle, check out 7 ways to make time for exercise and nutrition.