two big things about aa that have helped me stay sober over 8 months so far: one, accountability to others (kinda like weight watchers without a weigh-in, i feel like i need to show up, i want to see others, i want them to see me, i look forward to being part of discussions); and two, discipline (aa is simple but suggests that i find new habits and patterns of behavior. it even gives me a basic outline of simple things to do that will achieve the results. kind of like nike's "just do it"--it's simple. but it's not easy. but it is possible.)
aa also has given me a forum where i feel safe discussing my alcoholism. where i am not judged. where i find other people who i can tell all about my shame and guilt and cravings and craziness.
aa literature has really helped me learn about this disease.
best of luck to you in your search and congrats on not drinking!