Thank you to everyone who tuned in to my live yesterday and helped me celebrate! Join me for my next live video in the Substack app on Sunday, June 8th, at 2:00 pm CST. As always, if you can’t catch me live, you can watch the recording.
Five years sober. It's a milestone that carries more weight than many realize. I feel like I've finally made it; that’s just who I am now. It’s stuck, and I no longer have to battle with the decision of whether I should go back to the person I was before; she’s gone!
In this heartfelt and candid conversation, I share my journey of sobriety, offering insights and lessons learned along the way. From the challenges of early recovery to the unexpected joys of a life without alcohol, I provide a raw and honest look at what it means to celebrate this significant anniversary.
Embracing Self-Celebration
I discuss the importance of creating your own celebration for sobriety milestones. It's about recognizing your achievements and not waiting for others to understand their significance. Whether it's throwing confetti, wearing a party hat, or hosting a live chat, I emphasize the power of acknowledging your progress on your own terms.
Navigating Social Situations
One of the most challenging aspects of sobriety is often social events, particularly those centered around alcohol. I share my evolution from frustration with "happy hour" invitations to finding ways to participate comfortably in these gatherings. From bringing my own non-alcoholic options to seeking out venues with inclusive drink menus, I offer practical tips for navigating these situations while maintaining sobriety.
The Importance of Community
A key factor in my sobriety journey has been finding and nurturing supportive communities. I discuss how connecting with others who understand the challenges of sobriety has been crucial, not just in maintaining abstinence but in all aspects of life. From entrepreneurship to writing, I demonstrate how community support extends beyond just maintaining sobriety.
Taming the Inner Critic
Sobriety often brings heightened awareness of our thoughts and emotions. I delve into strategies anyone can benefit from for managing the inner critic, including:
Using the HALT 1 (Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired) acronym to check in with yourself
Incorporating physical activity and fresh air into daily routines
The value of regular sleep and nutrition in emotional regulation
I will be diving into key aspects of emotional sobriety and regulation in June!
Unexpected Lessons
I reflect on the surprising insights gained through sobriety, including:
The realization that you don't need to be a "superhero" to live a fulfilling life
How addressing the root cause of addiction can positively impact many areas of life
The ongoing nature of personal growth and self-awareness in recovery
This conversation serves as both a celebration of my five-year milestone and an offering of hope and practical advice for those on their own sobriety journeys. Whether you're considering sobriety, supporting a loved one, or simply curious about the experience, this candid discussion provides valuable insights into the challenges and rewards of living alcohol-free.
A little support goes a long way! If you’d like to help me keep creating, you can buy me a coffee here!
I add two additional A’s to include activity and air. Meaning, have I gotten physical activity outdoors to breathe in fresh air.
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