Content
It’s seen as normal to drink, and quitting that drug can feel like breaking a social pact. So your bold, life-improving decision to not drink will mean changes almost everywhere you look. Here are some surprising (and not-so-surprising) occurrences that will inevitably happen to your relationships, your identity, even your free time, and how I’ve learned to deal with each one. The life I had before I quit drinking was a lot like Groundhog Day; I was always waiting for it to begin and always reliving the same stuff, day after day, year after year. When I finally walked away from booze at 34, my life opened up.
How to flirt while sober?
- Keep reading for four keys to mastering the flirting game—without the aid of alcohol.
- Remind yourself of how rad you are.
- Meditate.
- Don't get hung up on your sober status.
- Go where the other sober people are.
But that’s not how it works, and that heavy realization has been known to spark a relapse or two among the newly recovered, myself included. Purpose has a way of allowing individuals to be accountable to themselves and others and responsible for their thoughts and behaviors. It can encourage people to work hard for and pursue success as they define it. If you are a father or mother, whether you are married or single, do the father/mother thing and take care of your family. If you are a husband or wife, take care of your home and family. People may depend on you, so always take care of your responsibilities and never let your family down.
You have more free time.
Drinking and drug use are forms of self-medication that many of us engage in to soothe emotional pain, usually stemming from some sort of adverse childhood experiences. Unfortunately for some who become sober house addicted, trying to stay clean and sober and live the sober life is a lifelong journey. Without taking the time to consider why you want to pursue sobriety, you may decide not to begin at all.
You’ll enjoy general health and wellness that you can’t necessarily achieve if you’re drinking or using drugs. In general, the term “sobriety” refers to the condition of not being intoxicated. While a general idea of what sobriety is may exist, it can mean different things to different people. For some people, being sober may mean not experiencing any measurable effects of drugs or alcohol. To others, it could mean more than just avoiding using recreational or prescription drugs or drinking alcohol, but achieving good mental health. How do you feel about yourself when you’re drinking or using drugs?
Little Red Book
Many addicts have heard that living a sober lifestyle means abstinence from alcohol and drugs. While this is true, living a sober lifestyle isn’t simply about abstaining from substance abuse. It’s about living a healthier, happier, and more productive life. If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction and are ready to live a sober life, contact The Recovery Village. One of our caring intake coordinators will be happy to discuss your specific situation and a comprehensive treatment plan to address both the addiction and any co-occurring mental health disorders. Acknowledging and celebrating the hard work of recovery is helpful for keeping you motivated and reminding you why you took this brave step toward sobriety in the first place.