Time is what I needed. Let's face it—sadness, regret, and fear were the emotions that led me to quit in the first place (does anyone decide to change their life because their happy?). My whole life didn't change the second I quit drinking, so naturally those emotions lingered for a time. But only for a time.
It's worth noting that AVRT is not designed to make us happy, or enrich our lives. It's meant to help us quit drinking for good, that's it. Personally I love that laser-like focus. Abstinence in turn made it possible for me to live a fuller, more contented and meaningful life.... but I still had to go out and find meaningful, fulfilling ways to spend my time.