Thank you for your insightful post, RanilGort. I am becoming aware of my cravings, when they happen, what was I doing (or not doing) when they occurred, etc.... For me, I notice thoughts of drinking happen as the day wears on. I'm fine in the mornings, but the afternoons/evenings are a different story. I feel bored & lonely, and tired, in the late afternoons. My old solution was to go to a bar and drink/talk to strangers. Play pool, the jukebox, hit on women.... More fun than sitting home alone. But, I always drink waaaayyyy too much, suffer brutal hangover, or worse (blackouts, driving drunk, fights, jail...). Not worth it. I am exploring other, healthier things to do. Like workout, jog, go to AA meetings for socializing, meditation to calm down/gain awareness of how my mind works.... Just becoming aware of cravings, instead of unconsciously reacting on them, is a huge tool to help me remain sober.
I really like what you had to say. Keep posting, and good luck to you!