I was a member of this site a year or so ago. I stopped participation in social media when I decided to get sober. Never thought I'd be 14 months sober.
Really can't believe I did it.
In the beginning there were a few people I had met who decided religion was going to be their motivation.
My question was simple: "Why not believe in your self?" They all responded they had no control, so without a "Higher power" they had no hope of sobriety. They chose their path, I chose my own.
It wasn't pretty, but here I stand from what I understand I'm the only one who made the year mark.
From the beginning I've looked at this journey simply as: I created the problem, so I must create the solution.
To anyone out there struggling I believe in you.
You got this.
congrats on quitting. i took the more difficult path. i've struggled & had problems with alcohol for 50+ yrs but i persevered. and i have now come out on top. this eve i had several craft beers + several shots of good whiskey (went out for dinner). i enjoy the taste & i enjoy the mellow feeling that only comes with alcohol.
i realize i'm an exception. since i'm alive & still healthy & fit ( shot 83 in golf today) in my late 70s i won't be quitting alcohol any time soon.
no doubt though that the alcohol will take some yrs off my life. but i'd rather give away a few yrs for one of the few pleasures i have left.
It is 20 years now since I stopped drinking - now I am confident to have an occasional (as in, the fridge has beer there since xmas holiday) beer or whisky, but rarely more than one - but for 15 years I drank no alcohol. Once you stop relying on it to get you through the day it becomes ever easier to live without it. ... so carry on living man, it is better with a clear head.
I am so happy for you. My Richard was an alcoholic and had been sober for 30 years when I met him. He past away last year from the treatments that killed his cancer. He told me that when he decided he needed to grow up and stop drinking, it was the best decision he ever made for himself. It is a hard road sometimes to stay sober but it sure sounds like you've got your mind going in the right direction. I'm glad you're here writing and sharing your journey because your story will help others. Thank you for being brave enough to share it.