January 2023 was the beginning of my sober curious journey. We were fresh off the holidays, and I felt exhausted, bloated, fatigued, and, quite frankly, just down. I know many people experience that crash after the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, but this felt different for me. It felt like every single day for maybe three and a half weeks straight, I’d been drinking. Not always heavily, but casual cocktails or glasses of wine were present with the constant parties and gatherings.
The remainder of 2023 was a cycle of taking two to three weeks off drinking before indulging again. I had a goal of taking thirty days off, but the temptation of how often drinks were present at various parties or other social events made it difficult. Even though it was several months of back and forth, this was also the year where I found sober Instagram accounts, read wonderful “quit lit” by inspiring people, and met other people who were choosing to be sober. I discovered alcohol-free alternatives and the places that sell them locally, like Loren’s Alcohol Free stores in Carmel. Despite my setbacks, all of these discoveries and new knowledge were helping me build a foundation to say goodbye to alcohol for good. In the fall of 2023, I woke up one morning, and something clicked. I just felt done and have never been happier or more content to leave alcohol behind.
The process of eliminating alcohol from my life helped me unpack new parts of myself. I didn’t realize how often I was leaning on alcohol to help make things enjoyable. I didn’t realize that I am more of an introvert than I thought. Mornings felt immediately easier and more joyful. Falling asleep felt easier. I became better at saying no to things and holding boundaries. I’ve read more books this year, picked up new hobbies, and slowly gotten in better shape. It’s allowed me to identify and examine my anxiety, which has ultimately helped me become a better mom and a better partner.
The reality is that drinking isn’t fun or glamorous for me anymore. It wasn’t the escape or relief I needed after a long day of being a mom. The important reminder I now have for myself is that I don’t have to drink alcohol. I get to live a dry life, and that is something I am proud of every day.
