The Journey Through Sobriety: Advice to My Younger Self
In the ongoing journey of sobriety and recovery, there comes a time to look back and reflect upon the lessons learned. Having been sober for nearly seven years, I often find myself pondering on what advice I would give my younger self during the initial stages of sobriety.
The program I’ve built, Beyond Sober, has helped many people overcome their struggles with addiction. Today, I’d like to share my experiences in the hopes that it might resonate with someone going through a similar journey.
The most crucial realization is that when you choose sobriety, you are not choosing to give up on yourself; you are choosing survival. In the early stages of sobriety, it might be challenging to label yourself as an “alcoholic,” and that’s entirely fine.
What’s important is acknowledging that your behavior has been influenced by alcohol and its destructive effects. The traumas, pain, and anguish that once drove you towards your first drink are the very things you have managed to survive. If you have weathered that storm, why fear the recovery?
During the height of my drinking days, consuming between 30 and 45 shots per day, fear consumed me entirely — fear of my own thoughts, fear of those around me, fear of what was foreseeable and unforeseeable. Every day was a struggle filled with self-loathing and an insatiable yearning for better times.
I believed that every success achieved or pain endured warranted another shot. But looking back now with clarity, I realize it was the alcohol itself fueling these fears and self-destructive tendencies.
Having supported countless people through my programs at Sober Not Sober over the years has given me confidence in saying this: recovery is not as daunting as it seems. It is not as painful or miserable or exhausting as alcohol makes it out to be. The fear and apprehension we experience are often the byproducts of addiction itself, not the recovery process.
One lesson I’ve learned over the years is that you can’t solve a problem by adding more of the problem. If I had the chance to meet my younger self, I would assure him of his strength and resilience. Above all else, I would remind him that he is stronger than he thinks. The journey to sobriety is not easy, but it is worth it. And most importantly, he would never have to face it alone.
As you embark on your own journey through sobriety, remember that it’s okay to seek support. Surround yourself with people who understand and empathize with what you’re going through. Lean on them when times get tough and celebrate with them during moments of triumph.
In my experience, building a strong support system has been critical in maintaining sobriety. Whether it’s attending group therapy sessions or finding solace in online communities dedicated to recovery, connecting with others who share similar struggles can provide a sense of belonging and encouragement.
Furthermore, take time to rediscover yourself outside of addiction. Sobriety offers a chance for personal growth and discovering new passions or hobbies that were once overshadowed by alcohol’s grip. Embrace this opportunity for self-exploration and use it as fuel for your recovery journey.
Lastly, practice self-compassion throughout your sobriety journey. Remember that setbacks may occur along the way; they do not define your progress or commitment to healing. Treat yourself with kindness and understanding as you navigate this path towards lasting sobriety.
Embarking on the journey through sobriety requires courage and resilience; however, it also holds immense rewards — freedom from dependency, newfound strength from within, and an opportunity for personal growth like no other.
By recognizing that you are not choosing alcohol but rather choosing survival and embracing the support available to you along this path, success in sobriety becomes achievable. Remember, you are not alone on this journey.
