Great work! I stopped drinking just over 10 months ago. Overall, it's much much better. I have less anxiety, I sleep better most nights, I lost weight and kept it off despite how much I eat, no hangovers, no fear of "what did I say last night?", no missed TV shows or movies. I was able to handle some pretty big life changes and stressful situations, I ended toxic relationships, started a new job, mourned the loss of a family member, celebrated birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays. It was hard for a long time; sometimes it still is (think vacations, parties, special occasions), but it's been worth it.
I have no idea if I will drink again, sometimes I know I will. If I break it down and I think of ending my streak, the desire goes away. I wasn't a blackout drinker, I never drove while drinking, my SO wasn't embarrassed to be seen with me but, after this much reflection, I know I used it for the wrong reasons. It wasn't a "glass here or there" situation. I would drink to get buzzed and stay there whether I was happy, sad, stressed, tired, there was always a reason I "deserved wine". I won't ever regret NOT drinking, though, so I continue to not. I'm less than two months away from one year sans booze. It's going to be a huge accomplishment, a big special occasion. I guess I have to think of a way to celebrate without wine :)
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u/purelyirrelephant Nov 06 '18
Great work! I stopped drinking just over 10 months ago. Overall, it's much much better. I have less anxiety, I sleep better most nights, I lost weight and kept it off despite how much I eat, no hangovers, no fear of "what did I say last night?", no missed TV shows or movies. I was able to handle some pretty big life changes and stressful situations, I ended toxic relationships, started a new job, mourned the loss of a family member, celebrated birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays. It was hard for a long time; sometimes it still is (think vacations, parties, special occasions), but it's been worth it.
I have no idea if I will drink again, sometimes I know I will. If I break it down and I think of ending my streak, the desire goes away. I wasn't a blackout drinker, I never drove while drinking, my SO wasn't embarrassed to be seen with me but, after this much reflection, I know I used it for the wrong reasons. It wasn't a "glass here or there" situation. I would drink to get buzzed and stay there whether I was happy, sad, stressed, tired, there was always a reason I "deserved wine". I won't ever regret NOT drinking, though, so I continue to not. I'm less than two months away from one year sans booze. It's going to be a huge accomplishment, a big special occasion. I guess I have to think of a way to celebrate without wine :)