Hi Pete,
I have done the same thing for 30 years. for me it took the realization that i am powerless over alcohol really powerless, I gave up.. alcohol is stronger than me I now run from it instead of standing up to it thinking somehow it might be different this time. also I realized I cant fight the battle myself I need the support of others that I can relate to. for me on a daily bases. as you say small steps 24 hr at a time, its the only way to overcome. Thanks for sharing