Change does not have to be hard and difficult

Change does not have to be hard and difficult

How do people cope with the challenges of staying sober and breaking old habits? This episode of RelateWell with Dr. Rick Marks takes a clear-eyed look at why change feels so tough and why it still remains absolutely possible. Speaking from his own long-term growth, Dr.

Rick breaks down why many people slip back into familiar patterns, whether that’s snapping at loved ones, reaching for a phone out of boredom, or keeping alcohol in the house when they’re trying to quit. He explains that the brain “loves patterns… even if the patterns are unhealthy,” which means change often feels like swimming against your own wiring.

You’ll hear him explain how identity labels like “I’ve always been anxious” quietly hold people in place, and how strong emotions frequently overrule logic when stress hits. He also highlights how environments keep old habits alive, comparing it to “trying to change drinking in a bar” or quitting drugs in a crack house. From there, Dr. Rick shifts into practical tools.

He encourages starting with awareness through simple reflection or journaling, then “creating friction” for old behaviours: putting the phone in another room, removing alcohol from the house, or using filters and accountability to block pornography. On the flip side, he talks about making new habits easier by designing your surroundings to support gratitude, better conversations, and improved communication.

Throughout, he stresses repetition, support, and self-compassion: expect slip-ups, celebrate progress, and remember that “maturity is growth over time.” His message is clear: “People can and do change, even long-term lifelong patterns,” especially when they combine awareness, intentional choices, and supportive relationships. If you’ve been wanting to change a habit, attitude, or relationship pattern, could this be the nudge to pick one small step and start today?