3 months sober
I don't post much but I read almost daily. Before bed, I usually get very comfortable and read on my smartphone. I want to thank everyone for their excellent contributions to this community. It has helped tremendously. My last drink/blackout was on Thanksgiving. Since then, I have lost about 20 lbs, am running 4 miles, 4 times a week and am feeling much better about myself and wish I had quit earlier. I wasn't a daily drinker but a blackout weekend drinker. I've tried moderating for the past few years and it DOES NOT work. I must keep reminding myself of this. The only way I can protect myself from another blackout is by not taking that first drink. These are all strategies I have learned from this forum. My advice for those who are in the earlier stage:
-any time you are rationalizing to take a drink, it is not you talking but your addiction. Don't listen to it and it will pass. In time, you will begin to be able to recognize this voice and it will become softer and softer.
-waking up in the morning, refreshed and facing the world with a memory is probably the best benefit of being sober. Life is difficult but it is more manageable without alcohol.
-giving up alcohol has allowed me to grow and to work towards a person that I've always wanted to become. Alcohol prevents growth and enables adults to act like children. The word "adult beverage" is misleading.
Today is a perfect day to be sober and I wish you all the best!