AA isn't for everyone. It wasn't for me. I question things too much and had a hard time buying into the steps. I also got really tired of listening to people's depressing stories. Not bashing it -- whatever works -- just wasn't for me. But I think you do have to have some sort of plan for when, say, you get the urge to drink or you get a craving. Make a list -- a real written list, not just something in your head --- of things you enjoy doing that don't require alcohol. Could be anything from going to Starbucks to exercising to reading a book, seeing a movie, walking the dog -- whatever. Keep the list handy and refer to it when you're tempted. I agree that in the majority of cases, drinking is a coping device to deal with our problems, boredom or unpleasant emotions. The key is to get out of the habit of drinking. Once you do that, it becomes a non-issue and is much easier to stay sober.