The Journey of Letting Go: My Six-Year Experiment with Sobriety

“Everyone I know that drinks, drinks the same way they did when they were 20 years old, but they aren’t handling it like they did in their 20s.” – 43-year-old

Every generation seems to conjure its own demons, and for ours, I’d argue it’s alcohol. Do you remember when Uber and Lyft were not a thing yet? You had to consider your transportation options well in advance, ensuring a sober ride home or even be the sober cab for your friends. Fast forward to today, with the rise of Uber and Lyft, everyone in the friend group can get drunk and get home without driving impaired. In a world where moderation is easily overlooked, it’s easy to see how we got ourselves here.

For years, alcohol has permeated our social fabric. We toast to celebrations and commiserate in moments of despair. We sip for relaxation, overpower sadness, and mark both joyous and solemn occasions. In isolation, we turn to drinks. Why abstain when the allure of alcohol is so readily available? Social media amplifies this culture, showcasing drinking as synonymous with fun, while television romanticizes alcoholism—depicting it as a glamorous escape. “Mommy needs her wine” has become a catchphrase, reinforcing the notion that alcohol is the life of the party.

Giving Up Alcohol: An Experiment

I launched this blog in 2019, initially aiming for a six-week hiatus from alcohol. What began as a short experiment blossomed into a six-year journey. I can confidently say that stepping away from drinking has profoundly enhanced my health and relationships.

My Relationships Flourished: I Don’t Have a Problem, Right?

If you were to ask my friends whether they think I have an issue with alcohol, they’d likely say “no.” They’d describe me as a dedicated mother and an ambitious individual—perhaps that was true. I put on a good show. But there were moments that I was not proud of, especially when I had a “break” from the kids and was able to let loose, free of parental obligation for the evening. I could have easily denied that although I didn’t consider myself an alcoholic, I was flirting with a temporarily functional alcohol abuse problem. I am not here to diagnose, shame, judge, or shame anyone. But, if you are a person that feels like you are questioning you relationship with alcohol, I would encourage you to consider taking a lengthy break to see where it takes you.

The Unforeseen Benefits to Family Dynamics

I’ve always prided myself on being present for my children. I attend their events, support them, prepare wholesome meals, and take them on adventures. On the surface, I appeared to be the perfect mother. Yet, in my absence from alcohol, I discovered a new level of presence with my family and the way that I interacted and met their needs. There was a new level of care, patience, and consideration that, whether or not my kids could recognize it, made our relationship more enriching and solid.

Sharpened Focus & Renewed Motivation

Even a slight intoxication can dull the parts of our brains that ignite motivation and drive. Tasks can linger on our to-do lists, cloaked in procrastination and fatigue. What many don’t realize is that alcohol hinders our bodies’ ability to absorb essential B vitamins, nutrients crucial for mood regulation. The consequence? A post-drinking slump that lingers long after the last sip. When my spirits dip, my productivity inevitably follows, hindering my ambitions.

Everyone’s experience is unique. Some may find inspiration in intoxication, but I am not among them.

Financial Freedom: The Economic Benefits of Sobriety

One of the most striking advantages of quitting alcohol was not just the money I saved from bar tabs but the newfound clarity in managing my finances. Sobriety enabled me to concentrate more intently on my business. I sought new opportunities, networked passionately, and cultivated inventive services—all of which fueled my financial growth.

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My journey into sobriety has illuminated aspects of life I never truly appreciated before. By relinquishing alcohol, I’ve not only changed my habits, but I’ve reshaped my entire existence in the most rewarding ways.