On the long drive home from my kid’s soccer tournament this weekend, I found myself reflecting on how surprisingly easy it had been to avoid drinking bourbon, scotch, or beer the entire trip, even though I had numerous opportunities. The tournament was held in a small industrial town, just far enough from home to justify an overnight stay. We arrived on a brisk Saturday morning, and after the first round of games, the kids went bowling with the coaches and some parents. I stayed back to squeeze in a quick workout.
After a solid workout, I was craving protein and decided to find the closest steakhouse to our hotel. The restaurant wasn’t too busy for a Saturday night, which worked out perfectly. I walked in and chose to sit in the bar area, surrounded by patrons drinking cocktails and beers. I ordered a hearty sirloin steak with bacon-wrapped grilled shrimp, a baked potato, steamed veggies, and—yes—water. Drinking alcohol never even crossed my mind. I enjoyed my meal, watched a bit of college football, paid my tab, and left, completely content.
How is it possible for someone like me—a recovering alcoholic who once believed I’d live with an incurable disease forever—to sit at a bar and only drink water?
NOT ONE BOURBON, NOT ONE SCOTCH, NOT ONE BEER
Before getting sober, visiting a restaurant or hotel bar alone without ordering alcohol would have been unthinkable. In fact, it wasn’t just a drink—it was often many drinks. I distinctly remember feeling powerless in places where alcohol was served. Like a moth to a flame, I was drawn to drinking and the venues that facilitated it. I would even plan my trips—both personal and professional—around opportunities to drink.
I avoided hotels without a restaurant or bar and gladly paid more for accommodations with 24/7 room service or a minibar. The convenience of always having alcohol at arm’s reach felt like a necessity.
What Changed?
This recent trip got me thinking: What’s different now? Why don’t I crave alcohol at meals, in my hotel room, or anywhere else? On this trip, every so-called “trigger” was present, including:
- Being out of town
- Being alone, with no one around who knew me
- Sitting at a bar
- Watching sports on TV
- Facing a wall of alcohol behind the bar
- Staying within walking distance of my hotel
- Having no obligations for hours
- Receiving an offer for a drink from other parents
- Having a private hotel room
Despite all of this, I didn’t drink. I didn’t want to drink. I didn’t even think about drinking. For someone who once felt powerless over alcohol, this situation might have seemed like an easy setup for relapse. But I didn’t have to call anyone or attend a meeting, and I wasn’t worried about slipping up. Going to that steakhouse alone, under these circumstances, felt like a testament to the growth I’ve experienced in my sober journey.
5 Ways to Remove the Desire to Drink
1. Change Your Perspective
Shift how you view the challenges in your life. Instead of seeing them as things happening to you, recognize that they’re happening for you. This mindset change can remove the urge to escape through drinking or drugs, and it transforms how you feel about the people and situations in your life.
2. Surround Yourself with Positivity
Replace negative people, places, and habits with uplifting ones. A positive environment leads to positive thoughts, emotions, and experiences.
3. Get Active
Stop making excuses to be tired or lazy. Regular exercise improves how you look, feel, and think, giving you the energy to live your best life.
4. Improve Your Diet
Ditch unhealthy foods like fried, processed, and sugary snacks, and focus on a natural, wholesome diet. What you eat has a profound impact on your mental and physical well-being.
5. Practice Gratitude
Start expressing gratitude daily for the blessings in your life. Someone out there would gladly trade places with you in an instant.
Sobriety Is a Choice
Remember, sobriety is a choice, and you have the power to make that decision every day. If you can choose not to drink, you are not powerless over alcohol.
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, contact Sober Coaching today for support and guidance.
Sober Coaching
Sober Coaching is dedicated to helping individuals navigate their journey to recovery through personalized coaching and proven strategies. Our experienced coaches provide guidance, accountability, and support tailored to your unique needs, empowering you to achieve lasting sobriety and a fulfilling life.
We offer one-on-one coaching, recovery planning, and resources designed to help you stay focused and committed to your goals. Whether you’re starting your journey or seeking ongoing support, Sober Coaching is here for you every step of the way.
Discover how Sober Coaching can support your recovery. Contact us today to get started.
Tags: Addiction, alcohol, SOBRIETY, TEMPTATIONS, TRIGGERS