It is the simplest instruction manual in the world.
Obviously, to stay alive, you need to drink water. That’s it. We are basically houseplants with complex emotions. However, doing this simple task feels like climbing Mount Everest.
It is 4:00 PM. You have a headache. Your lips are dry. You look at your desk and see three empty coffee mugs and zero water bottles.
You are suffering from Chronic Dehydration Guilt.
Why is it so hard? Why do we choose an iced latte over the one thing our organs actually need? Let’s talk about the struggle.
Water Is Boring (And That Is a Problem)
Let’s be honest. Water has no flavor. It brings no joy.
When you are stressed at work, you don’t crave a crisp glass of tap water. Instead, you crave sugar. Also, you crave caffeine. You want a reward.
Drinking water feels like a chore, not a treat. And because we are busy, we naturally avoid chores.
Plus, there is the logistical issue. If you actually drink the recommended “8 glasses a day,” you have to run to the bathroom every 20 minutes. Who has time for that?
3 Lazy Ways to Trick Yourself
You know you need to hydrate. But willpower isn’t working. Here are three psychological tricks to get the water into your body without trying.
1. The “Adult Sippy Cup” Method
There is a scientific reason why those giant tumblers with straws are so popular.
The Fix: Buy a water bottle with a straw. Do not buy a screw-top lid.
Basically, when you have a straw, you sip mindlessly while typing. It lowers the barrier to entry. For example, if you have to unscrew a cap, you won’t do it. But, if there is a straw near your face, you will drink.
2. Temperature Matters
Some people hate room-temperature water. Some people hate ice water because it hurts their teeth.
Find your texture. Do you like ice-cold water? Then, buy a vacuum-insulated bottle. It keeps ice for 24 hours. If you prefer room temp, keep a pitcher on your desk. Don’t force yourself to drink water at a temperature you hate.
3. “Spicy” Water (Add Flavor)
If plain water makes you sad, change it.
Throw in a slice of lemon. Add some cucumber. Use those sugar-free flavor drops. There is no law that says hydration has to be plain.
Does it need to taste like fruit punch? Then, drink the fruit punch.
Conclusion
You don’t need to drink a gallon a day to be healthy. Just try to swap one coffee for one water.
Your headache will go away. Plus, your skin will look better. You might actually feel like a human being again.
Tell me in the comments: Are you an “Ice Water” person or a “Room Temp” person? This is a very controversial debate.
