Q. My question isn’t exactly ‘broking/business’, but I’ve noticed my recycling bin is pretty full when I take it out, i.e. I’m drinking a lot. It helps me unwind at the end of the day and has become a bit of a habit. Some suggestions would be appreciated
It’s great that you’ve picked up on this pattern – self-awareness is the first step in making any change. In the broking and finance world of long hours, high stakes, and relentless pressure, alcohol often becomes the go-to way to unwind.
It’s also deeply embedded in the industry’s culture, from client events to post-work drinks, making it easy for casual consumption to turn into a habit.
But while alcohol can feel like a quick stress reliever, over time, it can have a negative effect on your energy, decision making, and even resilience. And these, my friend, are mission-critical.
Consider scaling back without losing that sense of unwinding. Here are a few experiments you can try:
Swap the ritual – Often, it’s not just the drink, but the routine. Try replacing it with a non-alcoholic alternative, like sparkling water with lime or an alcohol-free beer, so you still get the wind-down effect without the downside.
Set some limits – If quitting entirely feels too restrictive, try structuring your drinking. Maybe keep it to weekends or social occasions rather than a nightly habit.
Track your intake – Just being mindful of how often and how much you’re drinking helps many people naturally cut back. Some people find it even more impactful to track the cost. That reality can be pretty motivating.
Let’s be real, this industry normalises drinking and we do live in Australia where it’s a deep cultural norm. But choosing how and when you drink will help you stay sharp and perform at your best.
Have a question for our expert psychotherapist Bronwyn Penhaligon? Send your questions to [email protected]. Or, if you feel you need more support, you can visit penhaligons.com.au to schedule a one-on-one appointment.
