6yAng

Hi everybody
I've realized a couple weeks ago that staying sober is definitely hard work if you're not used to it. I try to remember all of the reasons I decided to stop when I get the urge. I try keeping busy. I go to the gym and work myself so hard-just so I won't think about it. It really kills me sometimes after my work out. I know what I'm doing is the right thing and my kids are so happy to see me sober. (That's one of the biggest reasons I quit). I get so worn out though after a while, trying to come up with new ways to keep myself busy. I already work full time, and between my fiance and I, we have 5 children, you'd think that would keep me busy enough. I guess I'm just easily bored and restless by nature. I hike and do all sorts of things with the kids.
I haven't gone to any AA mtgs though except for online. It's hard enough just to sit still for 45 minutes a week at my manager meetings at work. I'm bad, hu? I don't know why I'm so antsy and restless all the time? I can't even sit at the computer for more than 10 minutes without having to get up to do something. My mom always told me to stop being so fidgety in everything I do. Have any suggestions? I'm all ears, but not for long, I gotta get up soon. lol:bounce

Rowan

I'm glad you are trying different avenues to stay busy and are committed to staying sober. You will be a better partner and parent for sure

Since you're already attending AA meetings online, I would suggest you begin attending them in person. There you will find other sober people, and before long, sober activities to participate in. Why not give it a try? You don't have to go back if you don't like it.

Jersey Nonny

Stay away from caffeine...even at f2f AA meetings. Bring your own decaf, if you have to. At detox, we weren't allowed caffeine...and, we were also put on B vitamins.

parentrecovers

and so was all the unhealthy drinking.

support to you, and please know - your recovery is possible.


blessings, k

nogard

hi again Ang

Glad to see you hear to answer your question I am an addict and have been coming here since teh first day I quit using. Its a great place to and is an important part of my recovery along with NA and a relationship with a power great than me.

Kevin

SF69

Yeah, that pain/mental anguish I felt early on (that made me want to quit) did fade pretty quick. But fortunately, experiencing the bonuses of being sober (no more hangovers, actually having extra cash, etc.), helps to keep me that way.

And regarding the meetings, for me, AA meetings are much easier to sit through than my work ones. If you go to one and feel the need to move, not a problem. People are always getting up to get a coffee refill or to use the restroom.

Keep up the great work!

6yAng

Thanks SF69, I'll try it. I can always get up to get coffee but Jersey Nonny said to stay away from caffeine. I know, I'll drink lots of water and then have to go to the restroom. lol I'm just kidding. My warped sense of humor I suppose. Actually, I'd probably learn something useful at the mtgs. thanks again. I will go.

CarolD

Good to see you are making progress

CAPTAINZING2000

staying sober is easy

Living a life unmanageable is hard

353

I can only tell you how I got sober...

After years of trying to gain power over alcohol I

1. Went to an AA meeting
2. bought a Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous
3. read the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous
4. understood and related to the text in the BB
5. Got phone numbers that people readily gave out
6. used the phone numbers
7. FOUND A SPONSOR who had worked the steps
8. Called the sponsor
9. Began working the steps, starting at number 1
10. Followed the instructions of those who had sobriety
11. Went to 30 meetings in 30 days
12. Set an AA routine that includes 3 meetings per week (I Do Not Miss These Meetings) I attend others from time to time
13. Became involved in the AA fellowship (service)
14. Continue to work steps

In thirty years I tried everything I could think of and alot of things I can't believe I ever thought of to relieve myself of the obsession to drink and do drugs. Listed above are the only things that ever worked.

I found that alcohol was only a small part of my problem.

Good Luck to you....if you need help go get it....people are waiting in AA meetings, waiting for you to walk in so they can share what sobriety means and give you hope.

reed

Speaking of caffienated beverages, I drank 5 monsters today. I have been craving the boze around cocktail hour, yet I'm still sober, mind over matter. Why is it "they" say avoid caffienated beverages?

CAPTAINZING2000

too much makes you jittery.

We tend to over compensate after we quit drinking

Smoke more etc.

best

Staying sober is work

but it does get easier.
On the other hand though...
Cleaning up after a night of drinking never got easier. Seemed to always get harder for some reason and a bigger mess as well.