She Strengthens

Breaking Free from Booze: My Journey to Sobriety

As I reflect on my decision to give up drinking, I’m reminded of the transformative power of taking control of our lives. I’m Rachel, and I’m not an alcoholic, but I was drinking too much, and it was taking a toll on my well-being.

The Turning Point

It all started on a typical afternoon, driving to PetSmart for cat food. But suddenly, I was overwhelmed by anxiety, like a spaceship was about to swoop me up. I realized that my hangover from the night before was contributing to my panic. In that moment, I knew I had to cut out booze to combat my anxiety.

The Industry Insider

Working in the alcohol industry made it difficult to imagine a life without booze. As a sales and marketing professional for a big brewery, I was surrounded by cheap beer and sparkling gin and tonics. My boss would often joke that we were all “highly functioning alcoholics.” But I knew I wasn’t like him, and the thought of being trapped in that lifestyle was unsettling.

The Expectation to Drink

In the beer industry, there’s an unspoken expectation to be able to “hang” – to drink with the best of them. I remember one morning meeting with a salesman at a neighborhood bar, where we were served moonshine at 7 a.m. It was a culture that was hard to shake off, but I knew I needed to make a change.

The Decision to Quit

After months of struggling with anxiety and feeling out of control, I decided to take a year off from drinking. It wasn’t an easy decision, but I knew it was necessary. And now, nine months in, I can confidently say it’s been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

The Benefits of Sobriety

Giving up booze has been a game-changer for me. I no longer wake up with hangovers, and I’ve developed a newfound appreciation for life’s simple pleasures. I sleep better, and my dreams are wild and vivid. I’ve also noticed that people aren’t as intimidating without the social lubricant of alcohol. My social life has changed, but I’ve formed deeper connections with those who matter.

Confidence and Self-Discovery

Quitting drinking has given me a sense of confidence and self-awareness. I’ve lost weight, and my skin looks healthier. But more importantly, I’ve confronted my insecurities and developed a more meaningful relationship with myself and others. I’ve learned that confidence comes from within, and it’s not fueled by false bravado or liquid courage.

The Bottom Line

In the end, I’ve come to realize that there’s no good reason to drink anymore. My year off booze has been a journey of self-discovery, and I’ve learned that I’m capable of navigating life’s ups and downs without the crutch of alcohol. If you’re considering giving up drinking, I encourage you to take the leap. You never know what you might discover about yourself.