Sobriety is not abstinence, it is living life happily without alcohol. We all eventually bump into our character defects thanks to life on life's terms - this is when a sponsor is invaluable. When that day comes, recognize that the problem isn't "out there", it's inside us and almost invariably we are unable to see that truth without outside perspective and guidance. This is what the 12 steps are about. First word of the first step: we.
Don't drink, stay honest, open minded, and willing... it will fall into place in good time.