What if you could change your habits and make a little change in the world at the same time? What would the change look like? For those who participate in the Pause for a Cause substance-free challenge at IUPUI, the change could take money from habits like caffeine, alcohol and nicotine and move them to a positive cause of the person’s choosing.
The challenge, which begins April 1, is asking IUPUI students, faculty and staff to take a break, and instead of burning money, to fuel social change.
It is a self-set challenge that could be for one day, one week or one month. Participants are asked to calculate their typical spending on alcohol, caffeine, nicotine or another habit -- like eating candy or drinking soda -- and donate that amount to their favorite philanthropy, while pledging to go without.
“Caffeine, alcohol and nicotine can be a big part of our lives and expenses without us realizing it, and this challenge is a creative way to think about our habits,” said Eric Teske, director of health and wellness promotion.
Taking a pause can be difficult, but HWP and Healthy IU recommend using SMART goals, enlisting the support of a buddy or group and incorporating lifestyle habits like physical activity and mindfulness anytime, anywhere. It can be helpful to view the challenge as an experiment where you can freely learn as you go and make adjustments.
Healthy IU and HWP also offer resources on tobacco cessation, including free enrollment in the Quit for Life program, and wellness resources that offer tips and information on lifestyle habits such as sleep, nutrition, physical activity, mental well-being and more. HWP’s full wellness directory can be found online. Professional counseling resources are also just a phone call or click away with the SupportLinc Employee Assistance Program, which comes at no cost all employees, IU residents, graduate appointees, fellowship recipients and their household members.
With a new month on the horizon, it’s time to make changes and do some good while in the process.