When it Finally ‘Clicked’

My journey to alcohol freedom was a rollercoaster of highs and lows marked by numerous 'Sober Octobers,' and countless 'Dry Januarys' before the decision to give up alcohol for good truly clicked. 

During my teens, I was like many others, excited to explore the world of adulthood, which in my mind included wine after a long day, a cosmo with girlfriends, shots at the club, etc. At first it was thrilling - like a rite of passage (I mean, isn’t that what we’re told?) But as time passed, I began to notice a pattern emerging that left me questioning the role of alcohol in my life.

It was during the many "Sober October" and “Dry January”s that I began to truly reflect on my relationship with alcohol. These breaks from drinking gave me clarity, understanding more of how alcohol truly negatively impacted my life. I realized that abstaining wasn't just about detoxing my body; it was about resetting my mind and spirit. But as October turned into November, old habits returned, and the cycle repeated itself - and I wasn’t ready to give it up for good just yet.

It took years of these experiences to realize that moderation, for me, was an unrealistic goal. Because when I had one, I almost always wanted more. It wasn't about failing to abstain - it was about understanding that my relationship with alcohol was different from others. It was about acknowledging that my path to sobriety would require more than a month-long challenge.

Finally the moment arrived when giving up alcohol for good "clicked." It was in January of 2019, when I was partaking in a dry month (yet again), but gave myself permission to drink on the 19th, which was the date of a big party at work. The next morning I woke up and said, “ok Dry January, let’s continue”, and continue I did - one day at a time. I finally started to see that sobriety wasn’t a life in handcuffs, instead it was quite the opposite: it was freedom. It was about choosing to be the best version of myself, free from the allure of booze.

My journey to sobriety was far from linear, but each "Sober October" and "Dry January" was a stepping stone, a lesson in self-discovery, and a reminder that the path to transformation is as unique as the individual walking it. If you’re struggling to find that “click” just keep trying; keep taking it one day at a time, continue learning about yourself, and believe that your future will look bright without booze. Because it will :)

So, who’s in for Sober October?!