The Power of Personal Choice in the Journey to Sobriety

Kohdi Rayne
2 min readJan 17, 2024

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Does the thought of achieving sobriety for your family, job, or future often cross your mind? While these are admirable motivations, the harsh truth is that they might not be enough.

Photo by Misunderstood Whiskey on Unsplash

As an ex-alcoholic, I can attest that the journey to not just getting sober, but staying sober, is a deeply personal one. You might imagine that getting sober for your loved ones or your career is the right approach, but it’s about more than that.

True, lasting sobriety only becomes a reality when you decide that you are done with alcohol.

Spending time looking for a myriad of reasons to drink less is futile. There isn’t more than one reason to reduce your alcohol consumption — the only reason should be you. Regardless of what others may say or the external pressures you face, it’s the moment of clarity when you look into the mirror and realize this is your battle.

This is your life, and you are the one that needs to change it. No one else is going to live your life for you. If you continue to choose another sip, you are choosing to provide another excuse to keep consuming this poison.

Your loved ones, job, and future might be the catalyst that starts you thinking about drinking less. However, the drive, the commitment, and the real, enduring change, comes from within you and only you.

If this seems overwhelming, remember that every person who ever got sober felt exactly the same way as you do now. You’re not the one that can’t achieve sobriety, so stop waiting for someone or something else to be your reason to get sober.

The journey to sobriety starts with a deeply personal motivation. That thing you’re searching for with every single sip? That’s exactly what will help you put the drink down. It’s simply unachievable with poison in your veins.

Sobriety isn’t just about giving up alcohol; it’s about choosing to live differently, authentically. You’re already in pain, but the pain of healing can strengthen you. This choice is your choice alone.

With clarity and support, overcoming the challenges of sobriety becomes more achievable. If you or someone you know could use assistance, visit Beyond Sober and Sober Not Sober for resources.

Remember, you are your own best reason. Your journey into sobriety should start and end with you.

Written by: K O H D I | Beyond Sober

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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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