Robby Slaughter

A left over saying from Just-Say-No era insists: “I’m not high on drugs, I’m high on life.” While you may cringe when hearing this statement, most of us can also silently acknowledge its allure. Everyone wants to be happy. Don’t we all—at one time or another—partake in caffeine, alcohol or cigarettes as a way to make life easier? Would we really be better off if we were completely, 100% drug-free?

The philosophical questions may be murky, but our scientific knowledge of drugs is incredibly rich. Researchers have extensively studied how we metabolize these chemicals. We understand their short-term impact in almost every part of the body and we have extensive data about long-term effects.  The psychology of drugs, however, may be even more interesting to layman than the biochemistry. Current models explain patterns of use, abuse and addiction with startling accuracy. We know why we start, how to stop, and the reasons it’s so hard to quit.

Of all of the casual drugs, however, alcohol may be the most curious. Although about half of adult Americans consume beer, wine and liquor at least monthly, the vast majority of those who drink do so safely and without any serious health risks. Yet according to a 2010 study from the Centers for Disease Control, a record 15% of all Americans “regularly binge” on alcohol. Most people don’t have a drinking problem, but those who do put themselves at a serious threat of injury, disease or death.

Furthermore, the physiological effects of this drug create a devastating paradox. Most drinking occurs in environments where you need to have good judgment, yet alcohol impairs judgment! The worst time to make a decision about whether you are too buzzed to drive is when you are under the influence. Sober people make good choices; drunks make bad choices.  Instead making us more cautious, alcohol generates one of the most self-destructive emotions possible: a false sense of confidence.

The ultimate purpose of any drug is substitution. We use caffeine instead of getting enough rest; we smoke cigarettes instead of relieving stress through healthy means; we drink alcohol to escape the day and give us a sense of satisfaction. When used in moderation, most substances are not dangerous. Yet there is an alternative to drug use to address our day-to-day challenges.

Instead of drinking glass after glass, consider the impact of being productive. Conducting and completing tasks generates a sense of accomplishment. Finishing your work on schedule gives you the time to relax. Knowing that you’ve fulfilled your promises may be the greatest drug of all. Best of all, getting hooked on being productive will only make your healthier and happier!

Robby Slaughter is a Principal with Slaughter Development, an Indianapolis-based business process and workflow consulting company. His new book, Failure: The Secret to Success is available now at www.failurethebook.com.