Chapter 1: The Moment of Clarity

You eventually reach a point where the thought of quitting drinking becomes less of an option and more of a necessity.

I cherish my alcohol-free existence now, yet I also have fond memories of my days of drinking. Initially, I didn’t see my drinking as a concern. In hindsight, had I been more aware of my habits, I might have embraced sobriety much earlier.

Despite my past, I've successfully achieved sobriety after over 50 years of drinking, which began in my youth and gradually intensified. My serious drinking habits emerged during weekends while I was a single mother to two boys, juggling work and minimal support from my former partner.

During the week, I maintained a responsible demeanor as a business owner, ensuring I was always alert. But once my boys were with their father or friends, weekends became my escape. I experimented with various cocktails, often convinced that adding fruit made them healthier. My sister and I deluded ourselves into believing our concoctions were good for us.

Sundays were more restrained, as we prepared for the workweek ahead. This cycle of indulgence repeated for years. During some years, particularly when training for a 12K race, my drinking was limited to just wine on weekends, which felt manageable.

However, after remarrying and retiring, my drinking escalated significantly. I thought to myself, "I’ve worked hard all my life; now it’s my time to enjoy." But three years and ten pounds later, I recognized the need to reevaluate my habits.

I began exploring options for quitting. Though Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) crossed my mind, I hesitated to label myself an alcoholic. What led to this pivotal realization that my drinking had become problematic?

Three key indicators stood out: I found myself lying about my drinking, waking up with hangovers, and compromising my exercise routine. It dawned on me that I was squandering precious moments of my life in a haze, and it was time to take action.

Most nights, I adeptly concealed my intoxication from my husband, who was equally unaware as he enjoyed cocktails. Unlike me, he had a natural limit.

While I wasn’t overtly deceitful, sneaking alcohol was a form of dishonesty. I canceled outdoor activities and fitness classes I once loved, despite understanding their significance.

At this stage of my life, I recognized that my future was dwindling compared to my past. Each night, as I reflected on my choices, I felt remorse for allowing alcohol to dictate my life.

Chapter 2: A Turning Point

Years ago, before I acknowledged I might have a drinking issue, I read memoirs by individuals who had overcome alcoholism. Two that resonated with me were "Lit" by Mary Karr and "Drinking: A Love Story" by Caroline Knapp. Despite their impact, they didn’t prompt me to quit; I thought, "Maybe someday."

Eventually, I reached that "someday." After reading numerous books, I found the strength to get sober. I'm nearly five years alcohol-free, and I’m loving every moment.

When you consider your own drinking habits, ask yourself: When will you choose to stop? Are there signs indicating it’s time? Is your partner in a precarious situation due to their drinking? Are you underperforming at work?

Giving up something that has become a habit isn't easy. You might find yourself questioning what life would be like without alcohol. Let me assure you, it’s an incredible feeling.

Don’t just take my word for it; speak to anyone who has embraced sobriety. While the journey won’t be effortless, anything worth achieving requires effort. You will face challenging days, intense cravings, and urges, but envisioning a life without alcohol can empower you to resist temptation.

Sobriety also brings joy and success, allowing you to appreciate every accomplishment. A well-known adage about sobriety states, "It won’t be easy, but it will be worth it."

Imagine waking up each day without the burden of hangovers or nausea. Picture yourself hiking in the morning and enjoying brunch with friends, completely unfazed by the allure of a cocktail. You will reach a point where you feel empowered and in control of your life.

The first video, "What Alcohol Does to Your Body, Brain & Health," delves into the numerous impacts of alcohol consumption on physical and mental well-being, providing valuable insights into the effects of drinking.

The second video, "How to Help Someone with an Alcohol Addiction | Akhil Anand, MD," offers guidance on supporting loved ones dealing with alcohol dependency, emphasizing compassion and understanding.