Caffeine is something I can’t remember ever living without. For as long as I can remember, I have consumed caffeinated beverages. Growing up, soft drinks were always in the fridge, and in high school, I would save my lunch money to stop at McDonald’s every day after school for a large sweet tea. Then once Starbucks became popular, I turned into an unpaid employee of the establishment.
So here I was, years later, still doing the same thing, using caffeine to get me through the day. Then it started to nag at me, the way things we know we shouldn’t be doing eventually do. I’m investing too much in something that isn’t adding to my life. In fact, it’s taking away from it. You may think one or two cups of coffee isn’t a big deal, but here’s my argument.
I was letting it control my life. Usually, when we think of things controlling our lives, we think of big things. A job we’re not happy with or an unpleasant person we continuously come in contact with. But even the most seemingly insignificant actions we do shape our lives.
Upon waking, coffee was the first thing I thought of. I didn’t want to speak to anyone or do anything before sitting down with my morning cup of coffee. This became concerning to me because I have young children who can require attention before my feet hit the floor. I was irritable and resentful of what was needed from me before that morning cup of coffee. Maybe not in an extreme way, but deep down, I knew I wasn’t giving them the attitude they deserved.
I felt stuck. Changing this habit felt impossible. Then I came across an article that discussed why we should only be drinking coffee after 9 am. It featured a neuroscientist, Steven Miller, who spoke about how our bodies are designed to wake up with energy. We shouldn’t need to give our bodies more energy first thing in the morning.
After thinking about this, I decided to make two simple changes. One, I would switch my morning coffee to decaf, and two, I would drink a caffeinated coffee when I felt my energy dying. Simple, yet life-changing. Here’s what happened.
I noticed that much of my addiction was psychological. A few moments after drinking my first decaf coffee, I began to wake up, becoming more alert. I felt the same effects! Day after day, I would reach for the second cup of coffee later and later. Sometimes not consuming it until 1 or 2 pm. Of course, I still have those days I reach for that second cup sooner, but now if I fail to reach the coffee pot in the morning, I’m ok. Better than ok. I feel in control. I know there is nothing in that cup that will make me a better version of myself. Although this may seem like a small victory, I can say it has made me a better me. Taking a closer look at the little things that may have a hold on us can reap great rewards.
Wellness Coaching for a Better You 