It’s a radical thing, too, and something that can seem strange at first. So many of us learned to be critical of ourselves when we make a mistake or are finding things hard. Every day I am faced with people, situations, places and circumstances that teach me about what I want, where I want to go and who I want to be. Every day I stay sober is another opportunity to continue growing and learning, and that’s an opportunity I plan to seize. When I got sober, I was determined that I could pick myself up and get myself out of the mess that had become my life all by myself. Slowly I learned that not only could I not do it alone, I didn’t want to.
Breaking a 5-Year Sobriety: Why I Chose to Have a Drink This Christmas
It never, not once, changed a single thing. Worry gets in the way of happiness, and letting go of excessive worrying has allowed me to lead a much happier life. But now, I actually find the lack of control over external circumstances liberating. No matter what is going on in my life, I know that all I have to worry about is my decisions and the way that I conduct myself. I am proud to say that I haven’t taken a drink (or a drug) in nearly five years. Life has been pretty awesome as a result.
Years Sober – Here’s What I Wish I Knew on Day 1
That’s not to say your problems are frivolous- far from it. But even when you feel down and out, there’s always a blessing you have that others don’t. But that’s the antithesis of what life is about.
I did this big thing, in a society Sober House Rules: A Comprehensive Overview saturated in alcohol, and that takes power. I’ve remembered that I am powerful, and that is a joy to behold. Alcohol distorts our memories, but so does shame – and together they aren’t a pretty combination. I’ve come to realise that for me, the hangovers, the accompanying anxiety and shame-ridden guilt after even drinking one glass were too much for me. However, it was the fear that really affected me so deeply. I was so fearful of drinking that even the idea of moderation seemed impossible for me.
Your life will be so freaking beautiful.
Research shows that once a belief is established, the mind engages in confirmation bias by seeking evidence that supports it. This added intention was compelling for several reasons. First, the pronoun “we” acknowledged my disease’s involvement, giving it a stake in the outcome. Second, the word “deserve” validated our worthiness. Third, the term “better” offered a plausible alternative to our current predicament.
- You are alive and you get to experience the wholeness of human life.
- I can say, without a shadow of a doubt, that my life is significantly better when I do the work.
- Savor the fact you didn’t black out last night.
- Some part of me thought that if I stayed sober long enough, I could be at complete peace, free from any addictive tendencies.
- I had built up sobriety in my head as the solution to all of my problems.
My Biggest Takeaway From 5 Years Of Sobriety
I don’t just deserve better—I deserve the very best. The last of Clear’s changes, changing identity, is the most essential for not just creating but sustaining a transformation. Accordingly, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery and renewal to reclaim my power. Matt Hunt is a documentary photographer connecting with people, sharing moments, and telling stories in Southeast Asia.
Probably also because I equated having fun to reckless abandonment. Become enchanted with your own life as a sober person. Regain that childhood innocence when playing with a cardboard box was the most luxuriating thing for you. Cherish waking up with a clear head every morning. Savor the fact you didn’t black out last night.
Addiction Treatment Centers
Note that to preserve the identity of our sobriety milestones source all the names in this document have been altered. Sobriety milestones and addiction rehabilitation is sometimes defined as a trip. Many who decide to take the medication or take it out have taken the first move in the path, but they will work for years until they truly feel as if they’re here.
Reconnecting To Your Mind Body Soul In Sobriety
- When you haven’t drunk for 5 years it’s amazing how quickly it hits your bloodstream!
- What if you could have the life you want?
- Just firmly close them, without anger or grudges, letting those on the other side know I am doing it.
- Everyone who comes through our doors is in a moment of profound struggle in their lives.
- What I do know is that I am proud of both of my decisions; spending 5 years sober and the decision to break that sobriety amongst my family and friends on a special day.
Our content is created with extensive research, citations, editing, and reviews. However, it is important to note that our information is not a replacement for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is recommended that you seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers. Preet Joneja is the Clinical Director at Lighthouse Treatment Center based in Anaheim, California. She is a Board Certified Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years of experience working with individuals suffering from mental and emotional disorders.