My Path to Sobriety: What I’ve Learned About Life

Last fall, I turned 50 years old. Friends and co-workers threw me a fantastic party, complete with a party bus and stops at many local bars in the Cedar Rapids and Marion area. It was a night to remember and a birthday I'll never forget. It was also shortly after that that I decided that I was going to stop drinking.

I had done 'Dry January' before. I actually made it all the way to St. Patrick's Day. But this time, I wanted to challenge myself to make the change permanent. My reason for quitting alcohol was not one associated with addiction. It was based on how I felt the day after, no matter how few or how many drinks I had the night before. So late in December 2024, I gave up alcohol. Over the past six months, I have learned a few things about drinking and about myself that I thought I'd share.

I Don't Need Alcohol to Have a Good Time

One thing I was concerned about was my ability to go out with friends to a restaurant or bar. Would I need a drink to fit in and have a good time? I discovered that the answer was 'No'. I will sometimes order a non-alcoholic drink, but most of the time I'll just drink a diet soda. It also helps to have friends who are supportive of your decision. I have great friends around me who respect my choice to abstain, and we still have a great time together.

Not Drinking Can Save You Money! 

Everything is more expensive these days, and that includes drinks at a bar or restaurant. My tabs have been significantly lower without my two or three beers on them, or those $15 jumbo margaritas!

I'm Setting a Positive Example for my Kids

I want my kids to know that I'm strong enough to say no to alcohol. That way, they can continue to say no until they are of legal age. Then, they can make that decision for themselves.

I'm Improving my Overall Health

The health benefits of cutting out alcohol have been well documented. Better skin, improved sleep, increased energy, and weight loss. Not to mention the healing that is going on inside your body. Your liver heals, blood flow increases, and even ulcers begin to heal. Plus, your immune system and heart get stronger thanks to improved blood pressure levels. Even if I can't see it, I know that I'm healthier if I don't drink.

The final thing that I've learned is that this journey isn't for everyone. I made my decision. But I respect other people's choices too. I am not anti-alcohol. I enjoyed it for many years with very few consequences. But now is the time in my life when I simply don't need it anymore. I have more important things in my life. I'm six months sober this month. But I still have a lifetime to go.