Molly Watts
Molly Watts, Author & Coach
From Restraint to Reward: What to Add When You Drink Less
From Restraint to Reward: What to Add When You Drink Less
From Restraint to Reward: What to Add When You Drink Less
Monday 12th January 2026
Explore how to replace alcohol as a reward with healthier habits and reshape your drinking mindset with Molly Watts.
16 minutes
Inspiring
Informative
Encouraging
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Motivational
About this podcast
Author:
Molly Watts
Overview:
Categories:
Navigating Alcohol Dependency
Understanding Addiction & Recovery
Mindfulness & Emotional Wellbeing
Navigating Intimate Relationships
Creative Recovery Journeys
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Episodes:
339 (View all)
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Get the buttons here!From Restraint to Reward: Shifting Alcohol Beliefs
Episode Overview
- Alcohol is often seen as a reward due to deep-seated beliefs.
- Replacing alcohol with new rituals can help break old habits.
- Neuroplasticity allows the brain to form new, positive habits.
- Identifying personal joys can aid in creating alcohol-free rewards.
- Reframing identity around drinking can lead to lasting change.
"When we believe that alcohol is our reward, it doesn't matter how much we want to cut back."
What drives someone to seek a life without alcohol? Molly Watts, the host of The Alcohol Minimalist Podcast, dives into this question by tackling Alcohol Core Belief #4: 'Alcohol is my reward.' If you've ever found yourself saying, 'I deserve a drink,' this episode might just change your perspective. Molly explains how the brain links alcohol with reward and offers strategies to replace this belief with healthier habits.
It's not about using sheer willpower or feeling deprived; it's about creating new, satisfying rituals that align with the life you want. Molly shares insights on how our brains have been conditioned to expect alcohol as a reward, creating a sneaky loop that can make cutting back feel like a monumental task. But fear not, because she also introduces the concept of neuroplasticity—the brain's ability to rewire itself—and how you can harness it to form new, positive habits.
Throughout the episode, you'll hear about practical steps to replace alcohol with other sources of pleasure, such as enjoying a good book, taking a relaxing bath, or engaging in a hobby you love. Molly's approach is all about finding joy in alcohol-free rewards and reframing your identity around drinking. With her compassionate and humorous style, Molly encourages listeners to explore their own beliefs and consider what truly brings them happiness.
Whether you're doing a 'mostly dry January' or just curious about changing your relationship with alcohol, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable advice. So, what small changes can you make today to start rewiring your brain for a healthier tomorrow?