Yes, I've tried to quit drinking hundreds of times without changing anything else and I always went back. Recovery is about making those changes necessary to ensure your success. It's no guarantee of course.
Also though, getting through the early days is just about getting through each day (one day at a time) without drinking. You can each day take small steps to implement your plan and make the necessary changes. Go to a meeting, talk to a counselor, read a self-help/recovery book, take a walk, post/read SR are all things you can do early on to keep yourself from picking up the first drink. As time passes you can plan and implement larger changes.
That being said, some alcoholics need abrupt change, including things like in-patient rehab. But it sounds like you're not there yet. But like said, it is progressive.
I'm only 20 days sober, so I need to put my money where my mouth is I guess.