Hi elisa - Probably everyone who's ever tried to quit has been surprised at how difficult it was. I don't think I realized I had a real problem until I attempted it. Addiction is a pretty heavy duty issue and you have to be willing to do whatever it takes to turn your life around.
I haven't gone to AA this time getting sober, but I sure have worn out the keyboard on my laptop! There were times when I was hanging on by my teeth, but each morning now that I wake up sober, I am so glad I didn't drink the night before. Find some things about sobriety that you LIKE and focus on them. Make it a personal challenge and know that you have the strength inside you to succeed. Also, just think about where you'll be a year from now or 5 years from now if you don't stop.
In the end, though, all the tricks in the book will work only if you WANT them to.