The Journey from Sobriety to Recovery: Reclaiming Your True Self
When one makes the decision to get sober, it’s often reconciling with a significant life change. This, of course, isn’t without its challenges.
As an ex-alcoholic, I can assure you that many people struggle with their self-image and self-worth when they attain sobriety. This can lead them to despise the person they’ve become post-drinking. Here at BeyondSober, we understand that sobriety doesn’t come with a guarantee of instant self-love or immediate life improvement.
The illusion that alcohol creates is that it makes us more interesting or funnier. In reality, it simply numbs us to our actuality. Recognizing this truth about alcohol — that it doesn’t genuinely enhance our personality but simply dulls our perception of ourselves — is a crucial step in the journey toward authentic recovery.
Stopping drinking doesn’t just mean dealing with your sober self; it also means confronting the consequences of actions taken under the influence. It’s like a double whammy! For many, this is an overwhelming prospect, and it’s often a reason why some people hesitate to embark on the road to sobriety.
But remember, as we advocate at Sober Not Sober, being sober is not an end goal; it’s just a stage of the journey.
Recovery, on the other hand, is not a destination either. It is an ongoing process of investing time, energy, and resources into becoming a better version of yourself — a lifestyle change. The term ‘sober’ merely denotes the period between drinks while recovery signifies a commitment to self-improvement and self-love.
Who you were under the influence doesn’t have to be who you are in sobriety. In fact, the person you become in recovery could be a far cry from who you were as a drinker. So, remember, the choice to recover isn’t just about quitting alcohol; it’s about deciding to cultivate the best version of yourself.
It’s about practicing being your true self, rather than the person you were under the influence. Facts!
