The feeling of accomplishment it gave me to stop drinking (something that I had previously decided was impossible for me) did so much for my self esteem that it was the higher self esteem that kept me going. I didnt want to wreck that feeling of having done the impossible, by drinking.
I literally felt like I was being held hostage by drinking, and I had been given this one open window to escape through, and I took it. I felt like it was do it now, or do it never.
Of course, NOW, I know that black and white thinking isn't true. But I am glad I felt/ feel that way, because it is the reason I haven't relapsed.
Point is, use whatever logic works to steer you to sobriety!