Breaking Free with Gambling Leap

By Colin Brown

8 Steps to a Healthier, Stronger You

“Welcome! Today, we’ll walk through practical steps that can help anyone struggling with gambling or other compulsive habits. Think of this as a roadmap — not just about quitting, but about gaining freedom, peace of mind, and a better future.”

“If you had more control over one habit in your life, what would change first?”

Step 1: Acknowledge the Problem
“Why do you think admitting the problem feels harder than solving it?”

Honesty builds the foundation of every recovery journey.

The first step is often the hardest — admitting there’s a problem.

Without acknowledgment, no lasting solution can begin.

Be honest with yourself — write it down. Confide in someone you trust.

Take ownership: “Yes, this is an issue, and I want to change.”

Step 2: Block Access
Temptation stays outside. Control your environment, and you control your choices.

If temptation is always around, the struggle is constant.

Blocking access creates space to focus on healing.

Use self-exclusion tools: GamStop, Gamban, MOSES, SENSE.

Limit financial access: hand over cards, set withdrawal limits.

Replace downtime with positive alternatives.

Step 3: Find Inspiration from Others
Surround yourself with voices of strength.

Recovery feels less lonely when you hear real stories of hope.

Inspiration sparks belief: If they did it, so can I.

Join support groups & online communities.

Listen to podcasts or watch recovery talks.

Explore Gambling Leap’s Discord & resources.

Learn from Colin’s story & book.

Step 4: Identify Triggers
When you know your triggers, you can break the cycle.

Triggers are hidden doorways back to old habits.

Awareness is the shield against relapse.

Write down personal triggers.

Replace them with healthier outlets.

Avoid risky environments early on.

Stress after work.

Boredom or loneliness.

Certain places or people.

Emotional highs & lows.

Step 5: Challenge Beliefs
“What’s one belief you’ve outgrown in life?”

Changing your thoughts changes your future.

Addictions grow on false beliefs: “I can win it back” or “I need this to cope.”

Challenging beliefs removes their power.

Write negative thoughts → Replace with affirmations.

Example: “I always lose” → “I deserve peace of mind, not loss.”

Practice daily reminders.

Step 6: Rewire the Brain
“What’s one belief you’ve outgrown in life?”

Changing your thoughts changes your future.

The brain can change — habits rewire it, but so can recovery.

Journaling: release emotions, track progress.

Meditation: reduce urges, build calmness.

Breathing exercises: manage stress instantly.

Physical activity: boost mood, replace dopamine hit.

Step 7: Set Clear Goals
Small wins add up to big victories.

Without goals, recovery feels endless.

With goals, you see milestones and wins.

Start small: “One day without gambling.”

Build up: “Save $100 in a month.”

Reward yourself when you hit milestones.

Step 8: Focus on the Present
You can’t change yesterday — but you can shape today.

Guilt about the past or fear of the future creates pressure.

Living in the present makes change possible.

Practice mindfulness: “I am okay in this moment.”

Let go of past losses.

Focus on today’s choices — tomorrow will build itself.

“You don’t have to face this alone. Gambling Leap exists to give you tools, guidance, and a supportive community — every step of the way.”

“The leap may feel big today, but it leads to freedom tomorrow.”
Start your journey today