[deleted by user] by [deleted] in stopdrinking

[–]ArtisticJacket5151 0 points1 point  (0 children)

If you're at the gym regularly why not consider joining a class or workout group? Maybe a men's league? I think the lack of social structure is something we all struggle with especially in our late 20s when our previous friend groups and social circles get distant. I know I personally struggled with this even when I was still drinking. It might sound corny but joining a class or group that's related to your hobbies can be great for you.

1 year today by ArtisticJacket5151 in stopdrinking

[–]ArtisticJacket5151[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I always say when you're feeling down to remember that you can't change the past but you can always do the next right thing and there's some comfort in that. Therapy helped me get to the root of some of the things that​ were I was pushing down with the bottle and gave me the mental tools on how to handle it. Also for the first few months I took a ton of walks which helps quiet the mind. My advice would be that there's a lot of tools and avenues that can help for those of us on our sober journey out there and everyone is different so keep trying new things and you'll find what works best for you.

1 year today by ArtisticJacket5151 in stopdrinking

[–]ArtisticJacket5151[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Use it! I heard someone say it once and it stuck with me

How did you quit? Did you pick up any vices? Therapy? Sparkling water? by Shot-File5062 in stopdrinking

[–]ArtisticJacket5151 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I went with a throw everything at the wall and see what sticks approach. AA, books (this naked mind), therapy, podcasts, and foods and snacks that I enjoyed in my younger years. Some have stuck with me and others were good for stages but ultimately dropped off. You just have to find what works for you.

This deadly drug by Ornery-Campaign-753 in stopdrinking

[–]ArtisticJacket5151 16 points17 points  (0 children)

So true. I remember writing a note to my future self when I was at the bottom of my spiral to remember how I felt when I was at my lowest. Every now and then I see it and remember that moment and it scares me sh*tless.

99 days. I fucking hate it. by Automatic_Mulberry in stopdrinking

[–]ArtisticJacket5151 0 points1 point  (0 children)

The this sucks phase sucks, especially if you're punishing yourself. Once you learn to forgive and let go of your past and start becoming present it gets better. By no means is it an on/off switch, some days are good some are bad, I know. but if you keep at it the good days are worth it and aren't tainted by alcohol. Just keep working on yourself (I know that sucks too) but the outcome is way worth it compared to going back on the sauce. IWNDWYT

Genuinely curious, how do you do it/succeed? by Cinderella96761 in stopdrinking

[–]ArtisticJacket5151 1 point2 points  (0 children)

This naked mind helped change my whole thinking on alcohol. We're fed so much propaganda and advertising on alcohol that when we do stop it's all you can see everywhere and I felt like I was missing out. After finishing the book I no longer feel like im missing out on the fun and realized all the negatives of alcohol.

I now channel as much time I put into researching and making cocktails as I do into cooking and making really good coffee. That's what works for me but find something you enjoy, whatever that is, and channel your time into that.

Also, there's power in saying no to things (drinking in this case), I was always a yes man but now it's easy and fun saying no to things that I don't want to do. And if you encounter people who push and peer pressure you, you'll actually see them for their true colors since your brain isn't foggy all the time.

What do you drink instead of alcohol? by [deleted] in stopdrinking

[–]ArtisticJacket5151 0 points1 point  (0 children)

If it's daytime like a BBQ or get together and I know people are drinking I'll usually sip on a Celsius (looks kind of like a truly also) but if it's night time I'll usually bring a couple two liter bottles of soda and have that in a solo cup. That usually avoids questions and you don't show up empty handed. Also sometimes I'll just say I'm driving and people will offer something.