I think for me over time as I have build a sober life, my "comfort zone" has shifted from drinking as a stress response to just being with the stress but totally sober.
As sober months / years have accumulated, I get farther removed from my identity as a drinker and more identified as a sober person. The last couple of relapses were absolutely unsatisfying and felt "out of character" to who I am now. The last one in particular really shifted something deep inside me which was a fundamental acceptance that I not only cannot drink safely, but that I don't want to, no matter what.
I think that's what has become "easier" for me. Yes, I must watch out for cravings during stress or previous "happy" drinking situations, but that foundation shift is like an anchor that brings me back to my sane sober self.
It has been a heLL of a a lot of work to get there, but worth every effort.
Very helpful thread--thank you sohard et al. . .