Ethos23

Today is my 20th day sober and I feel great. I think what differentiates this time from other stretches of sobriety is the fact that before I was counting sober days, but in reality it was more of a countdown to my next drink. I would get a couple weeks in and give myself a reward, which is fine; however, my reward was more alcohol . . . definately NOT good. I finally realized that I just cannot drink anymore. Now my sober-day count is to remind myself that, as of today, I have 20 days of bliss under my belt. I plan to reward myself for sober-days, but with anything but alcohol.

Over the last 20 days, I have had engagements at which I would normally drink heavily. I was on a week-long business trip last week, most of which consisted of me just sitting in some re-certification classes. I would normally blow them off and drink all day. Instead, I woke early, went for a run, ate a healthy breakfast, and remained part of the group all day. I made dinner plans and drank iced tea. It felt great to come home full of energy. I would usually come home utterly exhausted and drunk! I also attended two functions where alcohol was served. I always cringed when I would think about such situations because I felt people would ostracize me for not drinking. Honestly, nobody even noticed.

I am taking this journey a day at a time, and sometimes just a breath at a time. I have had a pretty easy go of it over the last 20 days and I know that can change in an instant. I have been honest with my family and close friends about this problem. I have told them that the times when I am difficult to deal with and not fun to be around are the times I am drinking. You see, I am pretty good about hiding my drinking, except for I get onery and am an a-hole when I am on a good binge. This way, if things get tough (1) I can call on people to tell them I am having a tough time, and (2) it won't be so easy to hide. I think the kicker for me is that I am doing things for myself and not feeling guilty. Just like everyone else in this world I need time to relax. I used to feel so guilty about that and I would just drink to relax, or so I thought. Now, I take time for myself. Once I have decompressed I am much more attentive, and eager to help with household tasks or with others problems.

I will keep everyone posted on my progress. Thanks everyone for your support.

Ranger

Congratulations and thanks for sharing your encouraging experience, Ethos! Please keep us updated as the sober days fly by.

CarolD

All my best as you move forward...

Froglet

What other physical changes did you see or notice? Good job!

indakut

WTG Ethos

recoverywfaith

Congrats on your positive journey.

Zebra1275

Congratulations, it sounds like you are off to a great start. Keep doing it one day at a time.

MrDavid

Congrats...and many more

Ethos23

As for physical changes:
1. Sleeping better.
2. Not sweating all the time.
3. Running and exercising much more consistently.
4. Dropped weight.
5. Don't crave crap food.
6. No anxiety.
7. Skin looks better.

I could go on and on.

Froglet

Thanks! Great to hear your success. I'm trying to fight this really hard. It's really a challenge.

I'm going into my 3rdish week. Trying not to think about it. I continuously try to read up about the negative effects of alcohol to help me get over it.

Ethos23

In previous attempts I tried that too. This time I'm trying to just think of what I can do without alcohol in my life. This time is also different for me because I really took the time to do the inventory and realize that I cannot drink again, at least if I want to lead a happy and functional life.