Many of our ignition interlock device customers tell us they knew they needed to make changes to their drinking and behaviors, but they got a DWI since they didn't make those changes soon enough. A new year brings a new start, a fresh chance to begin with a clean slate. A new year encourages us to get rid of things that no longer bring us joy or to add more of what does. Many of us are excited for 2024 to bring a lot of change and promise into our lives. It's time to make your list of resolutions to help you tackle the year ahead.

It won't be easy

While it’s customary to begin the new year with resolutions large and small, the hard reality is that 33% of resolutions survive the end of January and only 8% of people keep them overall. That's a very alarming statistic offered by Recovery Centers of America. The discussion continues with a comparison of habits vs addictions, and some good information is provided for detox and treatments if those are needed. If you think you might have a problem with drugs or alcohol and need addiction treatment, Recovery Centers of America offers a variety of services to help you get grounded in the life-changing resolution to live free from drugs and alcohol.

Don’t make vague resolutions

If your goals are vague with no sense of direction, you’re less likely to stick to them. For example, you might start with drinking two glasses of wine every night instead of three. Even if you're not an alcohol addict, breaking a habit cold turkey can be hard. If you set resolutions you know you’ll never stick to, you’re just setting yourself up for failure. You may add stress from not accomplishing your goal, and that defeats the whole purpose of setting resolutions. 

Tips for making resolutions

According to the American Psychological Association, there are a few tips for making resolutions stick:
- Start small.
- Change one behavior at a time.
- Talk about it.
- Don't beat yourself up.
- Ask for support.

We're here with that support

Whether you are dealing with alcoholism or just have a desire to drink less, you may include alcohol in your list of resolutions. If your resolution is to stop or reduce drinking and you’d like help holding yourself accountable, contact Smart Start of Louisiana to see how we can help with voluntary use of our alcohol tester tools known as interlock devices.