Embarking on the journey to sobriety is a a huge decision. It's a journey that requires courage, determination, and a clear understanding of yourself and your goals.
Whether you're just beginning your journey to sobriety or you've been on it for some time, becoming more aware of your alcohol triggers and reasons for drinking is essential for long-term success. Remember I have been exactly where you are now and I want to share three powerful steps that allowed me to navigate those early days but also helped me maintain 18 years of sobriety.
There is no room for error, that's not meant to scare you but it's a reality check, sobriety is your priority. You are setting yourself up to win, we are taking the guesswork out. If you put yourself in harm's way to test your willpower it is a recipe for disaster.
The reason I made several attempts to stop drinking was that I put myself in situations which were not safe for my sobriety, and what do you know? I drank. You can have an alcohol-free life, and you can achieve the goals you've always dreamed of but to do that you need to implement steps to keep yourself safe.
These initial steps are the most important steps you'll take because when you start to grow that muscle of sobriety you will achieve days, weeks, months and years of being alcohol-free. This is where the work is and where we need to break old habits and replace them with new ones. Download my 6 Steps to Becoming Successfully Sober in 30 Days below for more help or drop me an email and lets jump on a call together to see how I can support you through this journey.
Step 1: Bin the Booze
The first step in reclaiming your sobriety is to remove all temptation from your surroundings. This means getting rid of any alcohol in your home and avoiding places where alcohol is free-flowing. By eliminating and avoiding these triggers, you create a safe and supportive environment for your journey to sobriety. Remember, out of sight truly does mean out of mind.
- Get rid of all temptation: Take inventory of your home and get rid of any alcohol you may have.
- Remove it from your home: Don't keep alcohol in the house, as it only serves as a potential temptation. You need to explain to your family and loved ones how important this is especially at this initial stage.
- Don't be where it's at: Avoid places or events where alcohol is present, especially in the early stages of your sobriety.
Step 2: Plan Your Time
Boredom and idle time can be dangerous triggers and you may start to make excuses for why you want to drink or be amongst people who are drinking just to stave off boredom .
To stay on track with your sobriety goals, it's essential to keep yourself busy and engaged in meaningful activities. Use this time to explore new hobbies, interests, or skills that bring you joy and fulfillment.
- Boredom = Danger: Recognize that boredom can lead to cravings and plan activities to keep yourself occupied.
- Get Busy: Fill your schedule with activities that bring you joy and fulfillment, whether it's exercise, art, or spending time with loved ones.
- Get Active: Physical activity not only distracts you from cravings but also boosts your mood and overall well-being.
- Learn a New Skill: Channel your energy into learning something new. Whether it's cooking, gardening, or playing a musical instrument, acquiring new skills can help you stay focused on your sobriety journey.
Step 3: Choose Wisely Where & Who You Spend Your Time
Surrounding yourself with supportive and understanding people is crucial for maintaining your sobriety. Identify your triggers and avoid situations or people that may tempt you to drink.
Prioritize your well-being and make choices that align with your commitment to sobriety.
- Identify Triggers: Take note of situations, emotions, or people that trigger your desire to drink.
- Always Plan Ahead: Anticipate potential triggers and have a plan in place to cope with them effectively.
- Prioritize Your Sobriety: Your health and well-being should always come first. Choose to spend your time with people who support your sobriety journey and avoid those who may hinder your progress.
Embarking on the journey to sobriety is a courageous and life-affirming decision. These are just some of the steps that will help you effectively navigate triggers and embrace a fulfilling life free from alcohol. Remember, sobriety is a journey, not a destination. Stay focused and committed to your goals, and prioritize your well-being. You have the strength within you to achieve lasting sobriety and live the life you deserve. You can do this!
When you embody your new identity as a non-drinker you will start to make moves that reflect this in your life. The trick always is to leave nothing to chance, this is your priority in life. First, we have to remove alcohol and by doing this all things become possible. We can and will change but the first step is to protect your sobriety and leave temptation out of the equation.
You can do this!!
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