Keep a drinking diary. As you track your consumption, you may be surprised to see how much you’re drinking.
Set a goal. Instead of resolving vaguely to drink less, set a specific limit–one drink a day, or even no alcohol except at social events.
Avoid triggers. Drinking can become an automatic response to certain feelings (stress, anger, loneliness) or events (getting home from work). Once you identify your triggers, try changing your routine to avoid them.
Water it down. You don’t have to drink less to drink less alcohol. Dilute your wine with ice or seltzer.
Slow your pace. Before going out, decide how much you want to drink, then stick with it.
Recognize the warning signs. If your drinking has begun to undermine your ability to function, you may have a drinking problem. Talk with your clinician, or contact a self-help group or substance-abuse program.
