Chapter 1: A Life-Saving Mindset for Sobriety

If you’re seeking insightful reading today, this piece could be pivotal. It has the potential to fundamentally alter your perspective.

Photo by Chema Photo on Unsplash Today, I want to introduce a mental strategy that could be life-changing, especially for those in their initial year or two of sobriety. This technique not only aids in maintaining a sober lifestyle but can also remarkably enhance your overall life experience. It’s a principle I’ve applied in my own journey.

As I’ve previously shared, one of my aspirations is to rank within the top 10% of the CrossFit Open. While CrossFit can be polarizing, my passion for it drives me forward. This year, my focus has been on improving my Olympic weightlifting skills. To assist me, I’ve enlisted the help of a coach who was a national champion and competed at a high level in Germany. His extensive experience in Olympic weightlifting has been a tremendous asset.

Twelve weeks ago, we began working on the snatch and clean and jerk. I’d like to share some video footage to highlight my progress. You’ll witness the differences between my earlier attempts and my current abilities. The improvements have been swift and incredibly rewarding.

However, I faced a setback. I developed tendonitis in my left knee, which has been quite disheartening. Consequently, I had to refrain from going to the gym, avoiding squats and similar movements, yet the discomfort lingered. This week marked the start of another 12-week training cycle, and I chose to continue with my coach. On Monday, I attempted some squats, but my knee flared up again, causing intense pain and forcing me to end my workout prematurely. I barely completed a set and returned home feeling defeated and downcast. My eagerness to train clashed with my body’s limitations, leaving me in a poor mental state.

Frustrated, I decided to skip the gym the next day entirely. I remained at home, avoiding any physical activity. My mindset was negative, a place I didn’t want to dwell. It’s reminiscent of how I felt when I first decided to quit drinking. Back then, I was at rock bottom—broke, living with a friend, jobless after my business collapsed due to my drinking, and battling weight issues. On the day I chose to stop, I felt just as defeated as I did yesterday. I thought, “What’s the point? Others my age are thriving while I’m stuck in this cycle.”

Had I remained in that mindset, I wouldn’t have progressed. I’m going to share the mental strategy that has led to so many positive changes in my life.

A conversation with a friend prompted me to reflect. When I mentioned my lack of motivation to train, he reminded me that I had two choices: succumb to a defeatist attitude or focus on what I could change. This morning, I woke up with a renewed perspective. I opted to engage in some cardio, including rowing, bike erg, and rehabilitation exercises for my knee. Although I didn’t squat or perform any heavy lifts, I still accomplished something, similar to my early days of sobriety.

I could have wallowed in self-pity, but I recognized that such thoughts wouldn’t lead me anywhere. When I quit drinking, I resolved to refuse that mindset. I focused on living in the moment, determining what actions I could take today to improve my situation by just 1%.

For instance, in my training, I asked myself, “What can I do today to work toward my goal of ranking in the top 10% of the CrossFit Open?” Even if my efforts aren’t at full capacity, there’s always something I can do to progress.

Reflecting on my early sobriety, I was in a restaurant job with limited funds. I asked myself, “What can I do today to better my circumstances?” The answer was clear: start saving money.

I took action, signing up at a new gym and resuming my role as a personal trainer. This allowed me to meet new people and broaden my perspective. Every day, I concentrate on making tangible progress in the present.

By focusing on the here and now, small victories accumulate over time. If you commit to not drinking and strive to win each day, you’ll witness a remarkable transformation within a year—perhaps even in just six months. This approach is crucial for significant change.

Life shouldn’t solely revolve around abstaining from alcohol or attending meetings indefinitely. While that may work for some, it’s not the only route. Even if you follow that path, apply the same principles to all areas of your life. Stop drinking not just to quit, but to create a richer, more fulfilling life.

Once you’ve made the decision to stop, direct your energy toward daily actions that align with your goals. It’s easy to feel discouraged and think, “What’s the point? I haven’t achieved anything after all these years of drinking.” But remember, age doesn’t matter. Everyone has the same 24 hours in a day.

Seizing each day can transform your life in ways you might not envision. This is the message I’m passionate about sharing. Make every day significant, no matter your current situation. Even when circumstances are less than ideal, you have the ability to make today extraordinary.

When you consistently prioritize progress, aiming for small daily improvements, that’s when your life will truly take off.

The first video provides a brilliant mindset hack for quitting alcohol, focusing on changing your thought process to enhance your recovery journey.

The second video offers practical tips on quitting alcohol, guiding you through actionable steps to support your sobriety.

What actions will you take today to seize the moment? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments. Have a fantastic day!