Checking in at ONE YEAR… 365 days! Never, ever thought this was possible, but here I am.
I was a hardcore drinker for 30+ years. But I became a sneaky, blackout (but “functioning”) alcoholic that was headed toward an early grave and possibly divorce. I was perceived as a social (VERY social) drinker, but I was actually blacking out 4-5x per week and I was hungover most days. I was on meds for high cholesterol, high BP, depression and anxiety.
But one year ago, after 15 hours of drinking on a golf course and in a casino. I went back to my hotel room and said I’M DONE!!! I wrote down all the things I hated about my alcoholism. I keep them in my wallet at all times. When I got home, I came clean to my wife, telling her the true extent of my drinking. I read the book “This Naked Mind” by Annie Grace. I got a sponsor/sober coach and attended some AA meetings. I listened to tons of podcasts. I stayed away from all alcohol for a few months (no bars, no parties, no happy hours… NADA). I told everybody that I don’t drink anymore. And gradually, the fog started to lift.
Now… My relationship with my entire family is better than ever. I’m once again excelling at work. I’ve lost weight. I’m off more than half the meds I was taking (and more will follow). I’m exercising. I’m reading books. All of this after YEARS of being passed out by 9pm every night.
Have a plan. Work the plan. Let EVERYONE know you quit drinking to build accountability. Read, listen and attend. Start building yourself up rather than drinking yourself down. You can do this. WE ALL can do this!
Bill!!! You are such a champion. I love how you have put your sobriety first, before anything else and had the openness and willingness to try new things. Way to go, my friend!
I made it but today was hard for some reason, i really wanted a drink and I’m barely eating or hungry for some reason but day 13 in 5 min and I’m going to bed.
And there you go @BillS!! You are 11 days in front of me. Congratulations!! So proud of you!! And look at those pictures! What a change!!
This one is for you:
keep at it!
Love ya, man.
Congratulations! 
