If you’ve been telling yourself, “I don’t think I need to quit completely—maybe I can just cut back…”

This episode is for you.

I’m sharing a story about a client—let’s call her Sarah—who had all the drinking “rules”:

only on weekends

never before 5 p.m.

only wine

And still… every Monday, she felt ashamed.

Not because she got blackout drunk—but because she broke yet another promise to herself.

That’s when it hit me—what Sarah really wanted wasn’t moderation.





She wanted to drink without consequences.



And that’s the trap.

Because moderation feels like control… but it’s actually just a delay tactic.

One that keeps you stuck, confused, and constantly negotiating with something you’ve already lost control of.

In this episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on:







Why moderation seems safer but quietly steals your progress





What’s really happening when you keep trying to “regain control”





The emotional truth that no one’s saying out loud





And my 3-question Clarity Framework to help you figure out your next step





This isn’t just information—it’s a turning point.

And if you’ve been white-knuckling the moderation loop, trying to avoid quitting altogether, it’s time for some real relief.

You’re not doing anything 'wrong', you’re just tired from trying to fix something that can’t be fixed.



Links & Resources:





Join the Dry July Coaching Challenge → https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited





Listen to “Relief, Not Relapse” (Episode 376) → addictionunlimited.com/376



 Want private coaching? Book a FREE call for next steps: addictionunlimited.com/call





If this episode cracked something open for you, “Relief Not Relapse” is the perfect follow-up—especially if you're caught in the on-again, off-again loop. Go listen when you're done here!



Episode Timestamps:

0:00 – IntroSarah’s story, the trap of moderation, and why this episode is your turning point.

1:20 – Welcome + What We’re Talking About TodayWhy this conversation matters, what moderation really represents, and what you’ll learn.

2:30 – Segment 1: The Moderation MindsetWhy moderation feels safer, how it keeps you stuck, and the emotional bait-and-switch no one talks about.

7:45 – Segment 2: The Dangerous Truth About ModerationThe real-life costs of trying to moderate, the risks you're inviting, and the moment that could change everything.

11:30 – Segment 3: The Clarity FrameworkThree powerful questions to get honest about your next step (and stop spinning in the maybe).

14:30 – Your Takeaway + InvitationWhat to remember from this episode, where to get your Clarity Questions, and how to take the next step with support.