1. The Importance of Connection: You Can't Do It Alone

Isolation can be harmful to everyone. The pandemic illustrated this reality, leading to heightened anxiety and depression across the globe. Personally, I have a tendency to withdraw when facing challenges, believing I might burden others with my issues. I often manage my feelings in solitude, taking time to reflect alone, which sometimes results in avoiding friends and family.

When I chose to stop drinking, I was unprepared for the challenges ahead. I didn't see myself as an addict; I was merely making a health-conscious decision. Others who quit drinking reported significant improvements in their mental health, leading me to think that simply removing alcohol would lead to an easier life.

However, the initial phase was rocky, and loneliness was a constant companion. Without weekend outings at bars with friends, I found myself spending many nights alone, reading or exercising. Conversations with friends felt disconnected as they couldn’t relate to my experiences. Living alone in a new city away from family further complicated my sobriety journey.

While I was in therapy, the support was insufficient. Eventually, I moved back to my hometown to reconnect with my family and established a support network by engaging in group activities like workout classes, writing groups, and book clubs. I also participated in SMART Recovery meetings, allowing me to interact with others focused on sobriety. These changes made me happier and healthier, highlighting that I truly needed the support of others.

The first video titled "6 Things I Learned From Not Drinking For 1 Year" explores personal growth and transformations experienced during a year of sobriety.

2. Embracing the Power of NO

Establishing healthy boundaries has been a vital lesson. Although I had previously worked on setting boundaries in therapy, becoming sober necessitated a reevaluation. Saying no can be challenging; I often worried about others' reactions and questioned whether I was being unreasonable. The answer is clear: healthy boundaries are crucial for crafting the life you desire.

If I’m not interested in participating in something, I’ve learned to be honest and decline. If someone hurts me, I communicate my feelings. If I sense a lack of acceptance from others, I distance myself rather than change who I am. Implementing stricter boundaries improved my mental health and overall happiness.

3. Alcohol Won't Solve Your Problems

I never believed alcohol could resolve my issues, yet I often fell into the trap of thinking it could help. After a breakup, I would think, “Let’s go party; that’ll cheer me up!” The reality was often reckless behavior or regretful late-night texts to my ex, worsening the situation. Similarly, after a rough workday, I’d think a drink would help, but it only led to bitterness and dissatisfaction in my job.

The truth is that alcohol merely provides a temporary numbness. Facing challenges with clarity is essential for overcoming them.

The second video titled "5+ Years Sober: What I Learned, Benefits, Downsides, Tips & Why It Was the Best Decision of My Life" outlines valuable insights from long-term sobriety.

4. Embracing Emotions: It's Better to Feel

Being sober forced me to confront my emotions fully for the first time as an adult. I had always considered myself emotionally aware, but processing feelings without the escape of alcohol proved to be a significant challenge. I began recalling suppressed memories and emotions, which was difficult.

Months of therapy helped me navigate these feelings, and a quote resonated with me: “We cannot selectively numb or deny emotions. If we numb our sadness, fear, and anger, we are also numbing our ability to experience happiness, joy, and gratitude.” This realization has been transformative; confronting my emotions has allowed me to learn, find peace, and grow.

5. Discovering Fun Beyond Alcohol

A common concern among those considering sobriety is the question of fun without drinking. Initially, I shared this worry, as many of my past activities revolved around alcohol. However, I soon discovered that there are numerous enjoyable sober activities.

To find sober activities and meet new people, consider joining Facebook groups, using apps like Bumble BFF, or looking for events through organizations like The Phoenix, which fosters a sober and active community.

What has sobriety taught you? Share your thoughts!

Zabrina Hvostal is a freelance health and wellness writer who also focuses on personal development. She is currently accepting clients for writing services. If you appreciate her work, consider supporting it by buying her a coffee.