Since I quit drinking (even before then actually) I have read many self-help & spiritual books, attended addictions counseling, and I am a member of AA. I have learned so much and have actually retained some of it.
One book I read (7 Tools to Beat Addiction) contained an exercise where I wrote down what I hoped to get out of drinking (rewarding sensations) and then wrote down alternatives that would actually give me that result.
Examples:
I drink to: Relieve stress
Better alternatives: exercise, meditatation, watch a movie
I drink to: Relieve loneliness
Better alternatives: Spend time with my wife & kids (duh!
), rekindle my relationships with friends/family members that don't abuse alcohol
I drink to: have fun
Better alternatives: mountain biking, concerts, sports, play with my kids
I drink to: be cool (really!...it was on my list
)
Better alternatives: mountain biking, fashion, fitness, be a good dad
This exercise really helped put things in perspective: this is why I drink, I don't get what I want from drinking, so what can I do about it?