Ep 369 The 3 Emotional Phases of Change (and How to Know Where You Are)
Thu Feb 05 2026
In this episode of Stop Over-Drinking and Start Living, I break down the 3 emotional phases of change that almost everyone experiences when trying to change their relationship with alcohol and why most women think they’re failing when they’re actually right on track.
You’ll learn why motivation and excitement don’t last, why the middle phase of resistance and fatigue is where most people give up, and how real, lasting change happens through integration and identity shift, not willpower.
This episode will help you:
Understand why Dry January (or any break from alcohol) often feels harder toward the end
Recognize whether you’re in motivation, resistance, or integration right now
Stop judging yourself for feeling tired, bored, or frustrated
Learn why white-knuckling doesn’t work and what actually does
Build self-trust and emotional resilience without labels, shame, or rigid rules
If you’ve ever thought “I can’t wait for this to be over,” “Why is this suddenly so hard?” or “Maybe I’m just not cut out for this,” this episode will help you see what’s really happening and why it matters.
This conversation is for women who are sober curious, cutting back on alcohol, taking a break, or exploring a healthier relationship with drinking and with themselves.
Ready for deeper support?
If you’re considering private coaching or an in-person retreat at The Magic House in Lisbon, you can book a Clarity Call here: https://calendly.com/admin-angelamascenik/30min?month=2026-02
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In this episode of Stop Over-Drinking and Start Living, I break down the 3 emotional phases of change that almost everyone experiences when trying to change their relationship with alcohol and why most women think they’re failing when they’re actually right on track. You’ll learn why motivation and excitement don’t last, why the middle phase of resistance and fatigue is where most people give up, and how real, lasting change happens through integration and identity shift, not willpower. This episode will help you: Understand why Dry January (or any break from alcohol) often feels harder toward the end Recognize whether you’re in motivation, resistance, or integration right now Stop judging yourself for feeling tired, bored, or frustrated Learn why white-knuckling doesn’t work and what actually does Build self-trust and emotional resilience without labels, shame, or rigid rules If you’ve ever thought “I can’t wait for this to be over,” “Why is this suddenly so hard?” or “Maybe I’m just not cut out for this,” this episode will help you see what’s really happening and why it matters. This conversation is for women who are sober curious, cutting back on alcohol, taking a break, or exploring a healthier relationship with drinking and with themselves. Ready for deeper support? If you’re considering private coaching or an in-person retreat at The Magic House in Lisbon, you can book a Clarity Call here: https://calendly.com/admin-angelamascenik/30min?month=2026-02