Grand risings friend. I want to share a personal journey that many can relate to: the transition from being a big drinker to embracing sobriety. For years, alcohol was a significant part of my life—pub crawls, late-night laughs, and the carefree craic that comes with enjoying a drink with friends. However, it took a moment of clarity for me to realize that I needed to make a change for my health, happiness, and relationships.
A Turning Point
After a particularly indulgent trip to Scotland with friends, I woke up feeling the familiar weight of anxiety and regret. I asked myself, “What is the point of this?” It was then that I decided to stop drinking altogether. Although I had a few drinks at Christmas, they left me feeling underwhelmed. I thought to myself "What the f**k was all the fuss about?
Now, I identify as a non-drinker—a decision I never thought I’d make, but one of the best I’ve ever taken.
My pronouns are "No" and "Thank You Mate."
The Downside of Drinking
Let’s dive into why drinking can be detrimental to our well-being:
Health Risks: Alcohol consumption can lower your lifespan, contribute to the development of cancer, and impair brain function. These are serious issues that can affect your quality of life.
Anxiety Triggers: The dreaded “beer fear” is real. Waking up with anxiety about your previous night’s antics can lead to a cycle of self-sabotage.
Further Self-Sabotage: Drinking often leads to poor choices in other areas, whether through drugs, unhealthy food, or reckless behaviour.
Sleep Disruptions: Alcohol reduces the quality of your sleep, making everything in life more challenging the next day.
Dehydration: The morning after a night of drinking leaves you dehydrated, compounding the difficulties you face.
Financial Drain: Hangovers can steal time and money from you—hours spent recovering could be better used for personal growth or simply enjoying life.
Relationship Strain: Alcohol can negatively impact your relationships. I learned this the hard way when a night of drinking led to regret on my daughter’s birthday. It was a life lesson we vowed to never repeat.
Exercise Avoidance: When you’re hungover, the last thing you want to do is exercise. This can create a cycle of inactivity that further harms your health.
The Bright Side of Sobriety
I'm a glass half full type of guy so let’s focus on the positives that come from embracing sobriety:
Increased Productivity: I now complete most of my daily work in just two focused hours, whereas before, tasks dragged on throughout the day.
Clarity of Mind: Sobriety brings mental clarity, allowing your brain to function at its best without the fog of alcohol.
Reduced Anxiety: Without the fear of what you might have said or done, you can engage more fully in your life and relationships.
More Time: Sobriety means going to bed earlier and waking up refreshed, giving you more time for pursuits you genuinely enjoy.
Financial Freedom: With the money saved from not drinking, you can invest in personal development, training courses, or experiences that enrich your life.
Overall Well-Being: While I can’t cite the science behind it, I can assure you that sobriety leads to greater happiness and health.
If I can navigate this journey to sobriety, I believe you can too. The path may be challenging, but the rewards are undeniable. Embrace the changes, and you’ll discover a life filled with clarity, purpose, and joy. Now that you know, what’s stopping you? Here’s to a healthier, happier future!
If you want to explore your true essence and find out why you are here go to www.awakenedcoaching.life and book a discovery call with Mike or Ben.