(ThySistas.com) No-one’s perfect. We all have our vices, we all do things that are less than good for us. For the most part, engaging in these things is just a part of growing up, and in some cases, are managed to such a degree that they aren’t doing all that much damage. But from time to time, a person will realize that their vice is having an overall negative impact on their life, be it related to their financial situation, health, or personal relationships. At which point, it’s time to say goodbye. But how do you do that? We take a look at a few tried and tested methods below.
Get Educated
Some things you just “fall into.” Take drinking alcohol, for example — it’s a socially accepted activity, and most people find their drinking before they’ve even thought whether they want to or not. But it’s 
never too late to learn. For example, you can read up on the dangers to your health, or, if you prefer to be inspired to change rather than scared into it, you can read up on the benefits of going alcohol-free. You may read them and think: “I’d like to have those plus-points in my life.”
Healthier Habits
Let’s focus on drinking alcohol for a little bit longer. If you decide that you don’t want to drink anymore, then you might struggle when it comes to Friday evening, and you realize that your default activity was to hit the bars. If you’re just sitting at home, bored, then you’ll quickly regret your decision. Instead, occupy yourself with a healthier habit — instead of going to a bar, hit the cinema, or take some of the money you would have used to buy alcohol and take a trip to the theatre. There are many healthy weekend habits available!
Alternative Options
It’s sometimes difficult, however, just to say goodbye to a vice, be it drinking alcohol, smoking cigarettes, or anything else. If you think it’s going to be difficult, then consider using alternative, healthier options instead. If you’re trying to give up cigarettes, look at buying a vape and some cheap e juice; it’s healthier than smoking tobacco, yet is only a subtle change in your habits. Instead of lighting a cigarette, you’ll use your vape. Simple! If you’re trying to cut down drinking, it can be a good idea to try non-alcoholic options of your favorite drinks. They don’t always taste the same, admittedly, but it’s close enough, and with a bit of imagination you’ll be able to trick your mind that it’s the real thing — but it’s not.
Pick the Right Time
If you’re serious about giving up your vices, then you’ll need to pick the right time to do it. Having the enthusiasm to change is a great start, but not all periods will be appropriate. Trying to give up alcohol in the run-up to Christmas – what with all the parties and so on – will not be a good idea. Wait until it’s a quiet period, and make the changes a long-term part of your life.
Staff Writer; Paula Adams