by Steve Whitmer

Created on: October 06, 2009

To businesses, you are nothing more than a gate between them and your wallet. The more they can control you with their product, the easier your gate will open, allowing them access to your money. Soft drink companies use ingredients like caffeine and sugar to addict you to their product, giving them carte blanche to your money. If you are disturbed by that realization, it is time to lock the gate!

Realize

Realize that you want control of your wallet, and that soft drinks are unquestionably bad for your health. If you want better health and more money, you must cut back on soft drinks. A firm decision makes the difference between cutting back, and saying that you are cutting back when you are only skipping a drink here there. You must lay down the law for yourself, and choose health and savings.

Reject

Reject the notion that you must order a soft drink with your meal. Ever notice how meals at fast food restaurants automatically encourage soft drink consumption? Profit margins on soft drinks are astronomical! Reject the continuous advertising that soft drink companies put before your face-you are an intelligent person with the capability of making good choices. Just say "water, please".

Replace

Research shows that in order to effectively eliminate a bad habit, you must replace it. Take this opportunity to increase your water consumption. Doing so doubles the health benefits of cutting back on soft drink consumption, as you will also be increasing your consumption of water, another proven health benefit. Don't fall prey to the soft drink companies who want you to replace soft drinks with diet soft drinks. Artificial sweeteners have a multitude of health risks, and your wallet still suffers!

Rejoice and Reward

Keep track of your victories, and give yourself a tangible pat on the back. Put the money you would have spent on soft drinks in a jar. Reward yourself with a spa day or a round of golf. Catch a movie or buy a new video game. Whatever will give you that 'wow, that was really worth it" feeling-do it! Make sure you don't reward yourself with a soft drink!

Remember

Remember, you are in control of your body and your wallet. Don't give that away to anyone! If you start cutting back today, the benefits starts today. Start next year and you lose a whole year's worth of savings and health benefits.

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