NEW YEAR, NEW ME!

NEW YEAR, NEW ME!
By Emem Everest
 
What is a party or hangout without an alcoholic drink? If you’ve ever been to any of my parties you will agree that my goal is always to make sure no one remembers their last name, but it’s a new year and a new season in my life so I’m now semi #TeamNoAlcohol. Last year, I had two major embarrassing alcohol experiences, and I’ve been forced to act my age and be more responsible around alcohol this year. Don’t expect me to drink with you when next you come to my party but of course, I’m a good host so I must always provide drinks.
 
For now, finding a balance hasn’t been a problem because, like most Nigerians, I’m denying the ‘flesh’ of several things, including alcohol. But the 21-day fasting period is slowly coming to an end (this fasting is a topic for another day), and I’m beginning to think about my new lifestyle plan. Will finding a healthy balance not be a challenge? Please avoid my post if you are #TeamOnlyWater. I personally believe people who drink only water from January to December…I reserve my comment. I can’t drink just water and stay off soda too, I will have to be drinking green tea and lemon water like a fish.
 
Anyways, back to our gist, on most people’s ‘new year, new me list’ is boldly written, ‘NO ALCOHOL’, and I would love to be one of them knowing that as I grow older, I need to prioritize my well-being and strive for healthier choices… But I don’t know how long it will last so let me work on just reducing my intake for now. First, I won’t drink without company. Secondly, if I must drink alcohol in public, it must be a glass of wine or a cocktail. If I come to your house, please don’t allow the devil to use you, just give me fresh juice or water. Thank you in advance because this year, I must enjoy all the benefits of reducing alcohol consumption.
 
While I was thinking about my decision on alcohol, I heard that reducing alcohol consumption among other benefits helps in managing weight, improves physical and mental wellbeing, and saves money! Ah!!!! Imagine going to a lounge, and all you need to buy are cocktails and finger food! No whiskey, No Vodka, Nothing! I’m probably going to buy a new car this year by just reducing alcohol!
 
But seriously, at over 40, I’m no more the young university girl who could party all night and then go straight into a morning lecture the next day. Now, if I consume too much alcohol, I need at least two full days to reboot my system because it needs more time to process whatever I consume so I have to carefully make the right choices for my body. This year is all about me, it’s all about consciously making choices that will make me an all-round better person.

What is it that you have to let go of this year or at least reduce? Make that decision today because no one is coming to do it for you.