"...easily able to control his desire for alcohol, the only effort necessary being that required to follow a few simple rules." Doctor's opinion.
" We will see that our new attitude toward liquor has been given us without any thought or effort on our part. It just comes! That is the miracle of it." 10 step promises.
Both these quotes are true in my experience. Staying sober is almost effortless as it never occurs to me to drink. I have this whole new attitude, and it came as the result of working those steps, not with skill, but with honesty and an open mind.