I never really use the term "alcoholic" although I am the textbook/cliche/token alcoholic. Drinking was causing huge problems in my life. That's what made me stop. I knew it was a problem for a few years before I stopped.
It took me many years and a lot of torture to want to be sober more than I wanted to drink and that hasn't swayed, but I will admit that the idea of "forever" still baffles me. I recommend staying in the day. I will not drink today.