Gratitude is the New Blackout: The Secret Weapon of Sobriety (and Life)

Kohdi Rayne
3 min readJan 20, 2023

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Let’s be real, when it comes to sobriety and mental health, it’s easy to focus on the negative and what we’re missing out on.

Photo by Brooke Cagle on Unsplash

Kind of like how we focus on the empty glass instead of the fact that we don’t have a hangover.

But practicing gratitude can help shift our perspective and focus on the positive aspects of our sobriety journey.

For example, instead of thinking about the fact that we can’t drink with our friends, we can focus on the fact that we’re able to remember the fun times we had and not have to worry about embarrassing ourselves.

You know, kind of like how we don’t have to worry about ending up on the floor in a puddle of our own drool.

And honestly, practicing gratitude can have a huge impact on our overall well-being.

Studies have shown that people who regularly practice gratitude have better physical and mental health, including improved sleep, reduced stress levels, and a stronger immune system.

Because think about it, who wants to deal with the physical and mental hangover that comes with alcohol?

But, seriously, the benefits of sobriety are undeniable.

Improved sleep, reduced stress levels, and a stronger immune system?

Sign me up, because honestly, who needs another hangover?

But, you know, it’s not like quitting alcohol is easy.

It takes a lot of willpower and determination.

And, honestly, sometimes it feels like the world is against us.

Everywhere we look, there’s a drink being thrown in our face.

It’s kind of like trying to avoid carbs on a cheat day.

But, that’s where gratitude comes in.

By focusing on the things we are grateful for, we can shift our perspective from a lack mindset to one of abundance.

And honestly, when we’re sober, there’s a lot to be grateful for.

The ability to think clearly, the ability to make our own choices, and the ability to wake up the next day without regret.

It’s like having a sobriety superpower, you know what I mean?

Incorporating gratitude into our daily routine can be as simple as taking a few minutes to reflect on what we’re grateful for before starting our day.

Not to mention, it can also help improve our relationships.

Research has shown that people who practice gratitude are more likely to have stronger relationships with their friends and family.

And as if that wasn’t enough, they’re also more likely to feel more connected and satisfied in their romantic relationships.

Which is the opposite of addiction.

Now that’s something to raise a glass of water to!

My point is, incorporating gratitude into your daily lives can have a profound impact on your overall well-being.

Especially in early sobriety.

From improving your physical and mental health, to strengthening your relationships, to boosting your work productivity, gratitude is a powerful tool that will help you live a happier and more fulfilling life, without the need for alcohol.

And honestly, isn’t that what we all truly want?

Love ya.

-Kohdi | Beyond Sober | Sobriety Wiki

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Kohdi Rayne
Kohdi Rayne

Written by Kohdi Rayne

I’m an ex-alcoholic and liver failure survivor actively helping the world recover from toxic habits and design a life they love to live.

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