This decision was originally made to support the people closest to me. If they were making a change, I figured I could too. What I didn’t expect was how much that change would end up benefiting me.
Truthfully, and let’s be real, I’m not trying to be a monk — I still enjoy a little weed here and there. It continues to add more to my life than it takes away. But alcohol? That was no longer an option and it needed to go. Cutting it from my lifestyle turned out to be easier than I expected, simply because it was the right call and things were better once it was gone.
So here are a few takeaways and observations from the past two years:
Social life feels and is different.
Yeah, those first few parties were awkward. I still enjoy showing up and being part of the crowd, but I’ve realized how much I leaned on alcohol as a social crutch — something I thought I needed to have fun.
I used to love being the life of the party, right in the center of it all. These days, I’m more comfortable taking a step back, not always leading the charge. And honestly, I know I’m not invited or included like I used to be, that can and does still sting. But I understand — this kind of change doesn’t just affect me. It shifts the dynamics for everyone around me too.
Sleep hits differently now…
No more 3 a.m. wakeups, dehydrated and anxious about parenting through a hangover. Just steady, genuine rest — and that alone is worth everything.
Hangovers used to completely crush me. Even a few drinks left me feeling useless the next day, and it seriously impacted my ability to show up as a parent and partner.
Now? 5 a.m. workouts are a regular part of my routine, and being free from the fog and stress of hangxiety is an absolute blessing.
You get clearer—on everything.
Your mind, your relationships, your communication — it all starts to sharpen. Clarity doesn’t come overnight, and I still question plenty, but once the static fades, things begin to come into focus.
You stop second-guessing yourself so much. You start trusting your gut again.
Some people fall away. Some get closer.
Losing people hurts — this was easily the hardest part of the journey. I’ve always wanted to be likable and relatable, but this change required me to pull back and refocus my energy on what our family needed most.
Looking back, I think poor communication played a big role in some of those losses. But in the effort to protect and strengthen our family unit, stepping away felt like a necessary move — one made with intention, not regret.
Alcohol is everywhere.
It’s expected, celebrated, and assumed you’re part of it. The camaraderie around drinking is real — it’s a ritual that bonds people. And when you’re no longer part of it, feelings of exclusion or isolation can creep in.
That constant presence can be a lot to navigate. But with intention, focus, and support, you learn how to remove its hold — and find connection in other ways.
Why I’m Still Sober
I have more energy. I’m a better parent and partner. I face things head-on. I feel everything a bit more — but that’s part of the deal, and for me, it’s absolutely worth it.
Two years in, I don’t miss it at all.
If you’re curious, or on your own path and just want to talk, I’m here. Consider me a resource and a friend. I’m always happy to share more, listen, or just be a sounding board for anyone navigating this journey.
Cheers to clarity, connection, and showing up fully.
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