How to Live Without Alcohol for 100 Days?

Keep the lesson, but throw away the experience. – Author Unknown

Article written by Alex Blackwell. Connect with me on Facebook.

You may notice the headline for today’s post, How to Live Without Alcohol for 100 Days?, is in the form of a question; not a statement. The reason for this is because I don’t know the answer. But, I want to find out.

I have always experienced the gap, the thin line in my soul between alcoholism and sobriety as paper thin and always in danger of being erased. There is plenty of family history to suggest both a propensity and a genetic pre-disposition for alcoholism to surface inside me at any given time. It is a disease I have narrowly escaped most of my life – and I want to continue to do so.

My attempt to go 100 days without drinking a beer or having a glass of wine will not erase my tendencies to drink for the wrong reasons and it certainly will not give me any moral ground to stand on if I am indeed successful. I just want to see if I can do it.

Too often, I have reached for alcohol to sooth my anxiety or to make me feel more comfortable when I’m with people I don’t know well. I associate going to baseball games with drinking beer and I eagerly look forward to that first Friday after-work drink, too.

Now, I want to try to experience all of these things without the usual assistance. My inner voice, my inner wisdom, has been suggesting this to me for some time now. It’s time to listen.

Day One started this past Sunday, May 4. Day 100 will be on Monday, August 11. How I live the days in between will be the challenge. I really don’t have a roadmap or any past experience to draw on for these 100 days. All I have is determination and a hope I will learn new things about myself.

My hope is old wounds that sometimes open and fester with insecurity when alcohol is the instigator will begin to close. I will not be healed or fixed in these 100 days, but there is hope I will have gain valuable personal insight that will help me with the healing process.

I’m not sure what will happen on August 12th. I can’t say if I will drink again or at what level and frequency. I do, however, have faith and confidence in whatever happens between now and then will be the right things for me. So, a leap of faith begins.

Here’s my plan for living 100 days without alcohol. Please share other ideas you think would be helpful:

Ask for help

By making this very public announcement, I’m asking to be held accountable for my actions. I’m also asking for help, and I’m sure I will ask for help many more times over the next 100 days, too. Some things in our lives are much bigger than we are.

Pride and arrogance contribute to our failure when we fail to ask for help. Ironically, it takes confidence and courage to ask. Confidence in that we believe there are people in our lives who care enough to listen and support us. Courage in the sense we want to keep moving forward in spite of the obstacles and pain.

Find alternatives

It will be difficult finding alternatives for the Sunday afternoon glass of wine or the cold draft beer during a dinner out. For me it’s just been a matter of habit; a matter of comfort.

Just as the physical act of drinking is a habit, so is the dependency on the calming effect the alcohol provides. Therefore, I may substitute a beer for a glass of ice tea, but more importantly, I will need to discover alternatives to finding comfort and peace. This will be the biggest challenge and hopefully the greatest opportunity for me.

Investing more time in reading, writing, improving relationships, exercising and just thinking are seem to be the likely candidates right now. I know a certain degree of peace in my life can be rejuvenated and restored by investing in these areas. I’m also certain I will find comfort by learning how to take better care of myself.

The thought of truly feeling all of my emotions without the faint haze of melancholy draping over me is invigorating. I’m looking forward to going into a Friday afternoon with the knowledge I can be at peace and content by just being Alex; no other assistance will be required.

Live one day at a time

Some days will be easier than others because it wasn’t my habit to drink everyday. Typically, I would not drink alcohol during the week. It will be the weekends, or being in a restaurant or at a ball game that will be the most challenging. There is also a vacation planned for later in July that will undoubtedly give me some concern. However, the cliché take it one day at time is the best advice I can try to follow.

To go 100 days without drinking will require making a conscious choice each and every time I’m confronted with the temptation. It’s not so much about setting a 100 day plan, but rather setting and living a moment-by-moment plan. It is my hope all of these moments of making the deliberate decision to resist the temptation will all contribute to the final result I’m seeking.

Take a leap of faith

During the times when I’m not feeling particularly confident, I will attempt to step back and ask what a stronger and more confident person would do in this situation. The answer will be there to cling to if I choose. So, knowing this, a leap begins.

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Comments

59 Responses to “How to Live Without Alcohol for 100 Days?”

  1. Tim Brownson on May 6th, 2008 3:37 am

    Best of luck Alex! I recently did a 30 day alcohol free stint. Actually, that’s not true, I did 29 and collapsed on my wedding anniversary, but at least I’d said I’d do that prior ;-)

    It wasn’t as tough as I thought and I really only did it to see if I could because I’m not a big drinker but I do love a cold beer and a glass of wine.

    I admire anybody that has a crack it it though and the sheer fact that you’ve posted about it here increases your chances of success exponentially.

  2. Tim Brownson on May 6th, 2008 3:39 am

    One more thing.

    I can almost guarantee that you’ll succeed.

    Knowing you as you I do, I know you’d never lie to your kids. So tell your kids and it’s a done deal. It may even remove the temptation bit because you’d never be tempted to let your kids down.

  3. Patti on May 6th, 2008 3:56 am

    This is a worthy goal and I applaud you for it.

    I love wine but wasn’t liking how I felt after having even a glass or two – I haven’t had any alcohol for 8 years and when I decided to stop drinking it was far easier than I anticipated – “anticipated” being the operative word.

    As a test, I decided not to have that glass of wine while out with friends for “just one night”. It was an eye opener experiencing the night out without drinking and being w/others who were. I felt so much better when I returned home – clearer.

    You can do it – but I wouldn’t think about August -focus on the day – it’s amazing how quickly those days add up.

  4. Alex Blackwell on May 6th, 2008 4:48 am

    @ Tim: Thanks for the advice and encouragement!

    @ Patti: Congratulations on your success. You are right about only focusing on the day. If I do that, each day, August will take care of itself. Thank you!

  5. Aaron - Today is that Day on May 6th, 2008 5:10 am

    Alex – I’m sure you’ll do fine, and I can’t wait to read the post about your success that I know you’ll be writing in August.

    I see not drinking alcohol in exactly the same light as not eating junk food, not smoking, gambling, etc. It is all a mindset. Put yourself in a lifestyle zone where those things are simply not a part of your life anymore. It’s not a question of desire or temptation, it’s simply a matter of “yes I do that” or “no I don’t do that”.

    I know that sounds ultra-simplified, but when it comes to battling something that is tempting, I have found that keeping it simple and making a true commitment to that simplicity is the key to success.

  6. Linda on May 6th, 2008 5:16 am

    Hi Alex –
    What a brave and wonderful statement/question. As one who quit drinking for 90 days 27 years ago, I applaude you. You have outlined the answers to your own questions within your blog.

    The only thing I would add to your own observations is that it is much easier to not go it alone. (This you have implied from your blog anyway.) For me, help has come through a 12 step program, but I know there are other forms of support out there as well.

    What I came to see was all the reasons that I use alcohol: to mask feelings, to quell fear, to avoid facing “truth” about myself, to procrastinate, to feel at ease in party situations, etc.

    While only you can discern that fine line, I would suggest that if you are thinking about it this hard, it might mean that you have crossed over the line.

    Blessings on your journey. It all goes a step at a time.
    Linda

  7. Empowered Soul | Andrea on May 6th, 2008 5:29 am

    Congratulations on challenging yourself in this way, Alex! I’m not a big drinker, so giving up alcohol is really no big deal for me. I am, however, a total sugar addict!

    About three months ago, I challenged myself to give up sugar and caffeine. It was not a fun process. I think my poor husband went into hiding for the first week, until my withdrawal symptoms subsided!

    What really helped me was witnessing my own inner dialog. Lots and lots of ego-based resistance came up, and I acknowledged all of it – and stayed away from sugar anyway. It gave me huge insight into my dependence on sweet foods for self-soothing and “treating” myself.

    There were physical detox symptoms for two weeks – my body just ached. And then, just like that, it was over. Once I adjusted, I could cheerfully say no to birthday cake or desert. No problem.

    I kept it up for 8 weeks. Now, I occasionally eat desert or sweets. I enjoy them – but I don’t “need” them after a hard day’s work as a treat. All in all, totally worth it!

    You can do it!!!!

  8. Maria - Never the Same River Twice on May 6th, 2008 5:33 am

    Alex – I can definitely relate to the anxiety-relieving effect of alcohol. I’m pretty shy in social situations and having a drink or two really takes the edge off that tension.

    My only suggestion for you in this context is to focus on your objective for the interaction. If you’re networking for professional purposes, focus on that. If you’re in a more social situation, it may not hurt to take a cue from the “pick-up-artists” of the world and have a few “routines” to use for ice breaking with new people.

  9. Evelyn Lim | Attraction Mind Map on May 6th, 2008 5:40 am

    Wow…Alex….what a goal!!

    Ok, I am not a drinker but have also committed to decline an offer of wine even for social events. I’m so intend to having a clear mind as much as possible that I prefer not to have alcohol cloud it, even for a night. I already went through last Christmas not having a single drop!

    If you should feel stressed and find yourself wanting to reach for a glass, just ask for help. Feel free to call me, except that I’m from faraway Singapore, or email!

    All the best,
    Evelyn

  10. Tejvan Pettinger on May 6th, 2008 6:03 am

    Good luck. I stopped drinking 10 years ago and can’t remember why I did now. There is a certain social pressure to drink at least in the UK. But, you only have to put up with the odd remark.

  11. Richard Callaby on May 6th, 2008 6:04 am

    After going an entire year without any alcoholic drinks I know the struggle the first 100 days were. It was the thirst that really started to drive me nuts. But you can get through it. Just think about how great it will be to accomplish this goal! It will certainly make you an healthier person as well which should greatly improve your life. Best of luck to you and just keep your eyes on your goals everyday and you should be just fine.

  12. Rich Vosler on May 6th, 2008 6:36 am

    Alex – WOW! Great post, great goal. I’m surprised that no one has added prayer to your plan. If you’re not a pray-er, self talk has power as well. There’s a prayer that’s included in most 12 step programs that goes like this: “God, Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference. Amen.” Or, put into a self talk phrase: “I have the serenity to accept all things, I have the courage to change the things that I can, and I have the wisdom to know the difference. I definitely believe in myself and I know I can do this.”

  13. David B. Bohl @ SlowDownFAST.com on May 6th, 2008 6:44 am

    Alex,

    I commend your decision and determination, as well as the transparency you’ve offered to all of us into your life. That takes courage.

    I, too, went through a period without alcohol. I quit drinking for a 40 day period a few years ago to prove to myself, and to those around me, that I wasn’t alcoholic. The bad news is that I celebrated at the end of the 40 days in a way that defeated the purpose of my abstinence – I partied like I had never partied before because, in my irrational mind, I wasn’t alcholic. Imagine the delusion in that thought!

    The Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous says: “Despite all we can say, many who are real alcoholics are not going to believe they are in that class. By every form of self-deception and experimentation, they will try to prove themselves exceptions to the rule, therefore nonalcoholic.” And that was how I felt.

    The good news is that my little experiment eventually led to my continued sobriety. I haven’t had a drink in about 3 years.

    I can’t say I know exactly where you’re at, but your thought process seems logical. You didn’t ask specifically for my advice, and I don’t like to offer it unless asked, but your honest post has prompted me to suggest that you find something substantial to substitute for drinking. Alcohol is but a symptom of a larger problem, and we must treat the bigger issues if we hope to succeed.

    I would ordinarily say ‘good luck’ in your endeavors, but it isn’t about luck. It’s about taking action with the knowledge you possess. If I can be of any assistance, please call upon me at any time.

    David

  14. Todd on May 6th, 2008 7:30 am

    Alex– SO funny, I am myself embarking on at least 30 days of no alcohol…I am incorporating a pseudo fast in the beginning to propel me in the right direction. I have done 30-50 days before without alcohol. You CAN do it man, I have faith in you. Thank you for sharig so vividly your intention….this goes a long, long way!
    Todd

  15. Lexi Sundell on May 6th, 2008 9:00 am

    Good for you! I wish you well with this endeavor.

    My grandfather was alcoholic and I have always used alcohol sparingly, don’t even like the taste of beer. The more I do energy work, such as Reiki and CCT, the more I find I dislike the effects of alcohol on my body and mind. Just does not feel good to me. I rarely even take a glass of wine any more.

    So you might do something really different and go take a Reiki class to see how that goes for you. That opens the door to a lot of self healing in and of itself and who knows, you might find you enjoy it!

    Lexi

  16. Jen on May 6th, 2008 9:19 am

    I really identified with your post. Alcoholism runs in my family, and I know I’ve abused alcohol in the past. But it’s a source of comfort and relaxation for me. Like you, I’m not a daily drinker, but the thought of forbidding myself to have a glass of wine after a hard day makes me feel panicky. This has given me a lot to think about!

  17. Jenny on May 6th, 2008 9:31 am

    Interesting. :)

  18. kirsten on May 6th, 2008 10:50 am

    Alex, you can do this, and we’ll be right here cheering you along.

  19. Just Me on May 6th, 2008 11:13 am

    The summer we moved was so very stressful that every time I turned around I had a beer in my hand. We ended up switching over to a non-alcoholic beer.

    For me, it was the “hand to mouth, icy bottle” that was the soothing effect, the alcohol actually got in the way and caused way too many arguments.

    I suppose it sounds like “cheating”, but until I can find cane-sugar soda in glass bottles, beer it is.

    Also, enjoy your surprise weight loss… it’s heading your way whether you realize it or not!

  20. Brennan Kingsland on May 6th, 2008 11:30 am

    Alex,
    I was never able to drink successfully, even being a cocktail waitress and a bartender, because booze puts me to sleep. For years, I was proud to be able to dine out with friends and consume a glass of fine wine with dinner, while staying awake and coherent. Finally, I decided that drinking to be sociable or relaxed was a waste of money and time. There are too many healthy alternatives.
    I have friends who stopped heavy drinking habits, though, by telling themselves that they were not drinkers. They made a conscious decision NOT to drink prior to being faced with a choice. This self-talk helped them to develop a different self-image of themselves and carried them through up to this point.
    I used the same technique to eliminate chocolate from my life, so I know it is effective.
    When we utilize our free agency to determine the type of person we are, we make the decision IN ADVANCE of the need to choose. For example, “I am a non-chocolate eating, relaxed and happy individual, who enjoys challenges and maintains a relaxed but alert, stress-free attitude at all times.”
    Works for me!
    Who needs booze(or chocolate, or whatever? Not me!

  21. Karen Lynch-Live the Power on May 6th, 2008 1:16 pm

    Hey Alex,
    I wish you Godspeed. Alcohol has never been an issue for me–I could always just take it or leave it…so all I can say is I’m cheering you on from here. Best of Luck…we will stay tuned and be there if you need some support.

    It is always wise to follow your own inner voice. That by itself is stronger and more important than a drink on Friday night!

  22. Erek Ostrowski on May 6th, 2008 3:24 pm

    Good luck Alex!

    Good job going public!

    What I hear is an opportunity for you to build some muscle around making choices that serve your purpose in life. Letting external circumstances dictate your drinking habits is a sign that you’re not conscious of the choice you’re making in each of those moments.

    More than drinking or not drinking, what I hope you gain from this experience is the ability to choose your path from moment to moment, regardless of the circumstances.

    Also, try substituting fresh juices!

    Thanks for sharing this with us!
    Erek

  23. Mark McCullagh on May 6th, 2008 6:39 pm

    I had stopped drinking for about 10 years, and then it snuck up on me again, mainly due to a relationship I was in with an active social drinker.

    I haven’t had a drop since July 6, 2007. When I would drink, I would hear a little voice in my head saying, “This isn’t where you want to go….” So I decided to heed that voice.

    My best advice: one day at a time!

    Also engaging in daily spiritual practices.

    Good luck.

  24. Alex Blackwell on May 7th, 2008 3:01 am

    @All: I’m truly touched by the comments and the spirit of encouragement and grace that each one of you have extended to me. I will provide updates along the way when I have something to share; or need to ask for help. Until then, thank you for your kind words of strength. And yes, Rich, I do believe in the power of prayer – thank you for sharing yours!

  25. Terry on May 7th, 2008 12:43 pm

    I haven’t had the experience of alcoholism, but have a good friend in recovery . . . something like 20 years. From what she has shared, remaining active in Alcoholics Anonymous has been instrumental.

    While online support is good, who will you be able to call and get immediate help when you’re tempted, and who will know what’s going on with you well enough to know when you’re approaching danger? That’s what a sponsor can do, and from what I understand that’s why you need one.

  26. AnneMarie Callan on May 7th, 2008 4:22 pm

    Alex

    I am so proud of you. My addiction is sweet things, cakes and biscuits but I have experience of alcoholism within my circle.

    It is the saddest thing in the world seeing them trying so hard and slipping back but one day they won’t. One day they will find the inner strength to take one hour at a time, one day at a time until they can take one week at a time. Then it will grow into months, then years – I know it.

    Have faith in yourself Alex and be proud. Believe it or not, my giving up sweet things is almost impossible but I will start a 100 day just like you. Thank you for the inspiration.

    God bless

  27. Tom Stine | Living from Consciousness on May 9th, 2008 7:46 am

    Hi Alex… I just discovered your blog. Excellent decision. I can’t say enough good things about living an alcohol free life.

    I went for almost 16 years without alcohol because booze had started making me feel physically ill. I guess I drank too much in college, like most people. :-) But then I went to Paris, and I couldn’t resist the wine flowing everywhere, and that started me back. I knew, though, that it wasn’t the right choice when a friend of mine said, “I’m so glad you started drinking again. It makes you a more fun person.” So, I’m only fun when I drink? Oh, brother.

    Mercifully, the alcohol started making me sick again. I would get a 6 pack hangover from one drink, hard liquor, wine, beer, didn’t matter. And so, I quit again. And I feel much better and happier. And I haven’t talked with that friend in 2 years.

    Good luck with the challenge.

  28. jewel on May 9th, 2008 10:23 am

    Great article. Certainly its not easy, and in fact I was directed to your site by another article you wrote as a guest regarding your daughters return from college. I was very intrigued by your approach and as I read on. . . I felt a bit stumbled by your mention of discussing her choice for president . . . over a beer. It just didn’t seem to fit with all the other things you were saying.

    I’ve been a member of AA for 15.5 years now, and, although I could have quit for 100 days. . .I needed to quit for more than that. Once you cross the line from drinker to alcoholic – you won’t have the choice to go back over that line again. I personally wouldn’t be testing it. I know from experience and listening to the experiences of others – its not worth it. In fact, I can honestly say, there is not an alcoholic substance out there that I would consider in exchange for the life I’ve been able to manifest since I’ve stopped drinking. The clarity that has come to me by putting down the drink- and releasing the addiction- has been incredible.

    One of my kids decided to go to AA, “but you’re not an alcoholic”, I cried out. He politely reminded me that “the only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking.”

  29. Alex Blackwell on May 9th, 2008 10:59 am

    @Jewel: Regarding the beer comment in my guest post for Zen Habits, I wrote that article about three weeks ago before I made this 100 day decision. I think I already know what my answer will be on day 100 – it’s just hard admitting to it right now. Thanks for taking the time to comment – I appreciate your support very much.
    Alex

  30. joshu on May 9th, 2008 3:50 pm

    First, the man takes a drink.
    Then the drink takes a drink.
    Than the drink takes the man.
    –Japanese Proverb

  31. Links for Super-Charged Living - May 10, 2008 | My Super-Charged Life on May 10th, 2008 5:01 am

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  32. Suzie Cheel on May 10th, 2008 8:12 pm

    Hi Alex,

    I am sure you will succeed,
    I will be interested to see whether you start again in 101 days? I think I prefer the French way, to just enjoy a glass with a meal, rather than totally abstaining.
    Putting it out there to the world has an impact on what you do, as i am currently finding.

    Enjoy and i look forward to reading your story.
    Suzie

  33. Rich on May 10th, 2008 10:13 pm

    I want to wish you all the luck in the world. I had a friend some years back who would go a year without alcohol. He’d just decide that it was time to clean up his act… And he did it. He started me thinking. If he could do it for a year, why couldn’t I? Well, I tried to stop and found it to be very difficult. At one time, I did a 5 year stint and then I went to a reunion of old GI buddies and decided that I was going to party. 7 years later, I decided that I had a problem. That’s when I decided to quit, for good, one day at a time. That was 6 years 4 months and 11 days ago. That’s about 2,321 days. In the beginning it was touch and go, but today, I can’t imagine taking a drink. I’ve been blessed. I still have some difficulty in social situations, but that’s just part of life for me. I’ve learned to do many stress reducing activities: meditation, exercise, hobbies… Many people have helped me along the way as well. I could have never done it alone. You seem to have the right idea, in that you are making yourself accountable. An old friend talked to me about Honesty- He said: You can’t save your face and your ass at the same time. Being honest with yourself is THE most important aspect of this type of endeavor. Again, I wish you all the best- one day at a time. Rich

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  35. Patricia - Spiritual Journey Of A Lightworker on May 15th, 2008 11:48 pm

    Alex, I applaud your determination. I am not an alcoholic only because I choose to not take the chance by drinking. My dad and grandfather and numerous other family members are alcoholics. I have seen it ruin too many lives to take the chance by drinking.

    Because I was raised by an alcoholic parent and a co-dependant parent, I have played both roles quite well in the past without the benefit of actually drinking. I went to Al-Anon, a 12-Step program for family and friends of alcoholics for almost 10 years and then stopped. I recently started going back to meetings with a friend of mine who just divorced her alcoholic. Because she doesn’t want to marry another alcoholic, I suggested that she give Al-Anon a try. She is learning about herself through the meetings. Even though I don’t live with an alcoholic, the program still saved my marriage years ago.

    You are in my prayers.

  36. AgentSully on May 16th, 2008 7:22 pm

    Good luck! As time goes by you will probably notice how you don’t need it at all. Peace be with you.

  37. Clean on May 18th, 2008 9:56 am

    Hello Alex. From what I read you have great faith. With great faith your goal is easily achievable.

    I am 20 years old in college, every night there is a party, I will go out and not drink a drop. I never have and never will.. there isn’t even temptation anymore.. after a while you just come accustom to the feeling, and so does everyone around you. Some people might ask you to take a sip, but after you say no most people just let it go.

    As for the anxiety… My dad drank until he was 30 years old he never had anxiety or panic why? because he was drunk all the time.

    My second year at college I got hit with the what I call the Alcholic gene. I was having severe anxiety and major panic attacks I was losing my mind. But I never resorted to alcohol. Instead I started medication. The medication has worked fantastic.. and I’m still a social butterfly who doesn’t need a drink to have a good time.

    If times are getting tough and you think you have to take a drink..fall back on your faith.. If Christ could give up his life for you.. you can give up a simple drink for him.

  38. jonson roth on May 26th, 2008 1:09 pm

    Your second paragraph describes me exactly, but I have found moderation. I know my limit now, and I stick to it. It isn’t necessarily easy, but it’s possible.

  39. Alex Blackwell on May 26th, 2008 6:10 pm

    @Jason: Moderation would be a great goal to achieve – thanks for sharing.

  40. Clean on May 28th, 2008 4:09 pm

    jonson and Alex

    True alcoholics can not moderate

  41. Alex Blackwell on May 31st, 2008 5:55 am

    @Clean: Thanks for keeping us honest.

  42. Justin on June 1st, 2008 4:00 pm

    Congrats on your efforts…I did about 6 months without alcohol last year, and I just decided again to quit drinking for an undetermined amount of time…

    I think the key is to focus on the outcome of why you are doing it, and think of plenty of fun alternatives to drinking…then every time you are tempted, just take out your list of the fun alternatives and do one of those

  43. Chris on June 4th, 2008 2:18 pm

    I wish you luck. I’ve gone several weeks before, but certainly not a hundred days. It seems to me that my friends try to ask me to parties that much more vigorously when they know I’m on the wagon, I guess since they feel a little bad that they couldn’t quit either? I hope you find what you’re looking for.

  44. Joanna on June 22nd, 2008 2:02 pm

    Today 22th June 2008 I am a 100 days alcohol free !

  45. Alex Blackwell on June 23rd, 2008 3:34 pm

    Way to go Joanna!
    Alex

  46. Jim P. on July 4th, 2008 1:48 am

    I had been a heavy drinker for years. Just over a year ago out of the blue, three guys decided to try and kill me. I tried to reconcile what had happened to me with my life in general too and found myself on that downward spiral. Nothing or no one could help me and I really wanted it all to be over. I had a realisation one day which basically made me see that no one actually owed me a thing and it really was up to me. The first step was to stop drinking, one day at a time, I felt good, had more energy and clarity of thought, I read, I wrote, I exercised and I survived. As I write this it has been 104 days. Smartest move I ever made. Good luck.

  47. CZ on July 15th, 2008 10:29 am

    Good luck to you. I find myself at this page on my own search for answers. After nearly 4 years of sobriety I took that first drink 11 days ago…and thought I could still manage my life. I can’t. I think I’m in control. I’m not. It is. I’m struggling with why that simple thing – alcohol-has so much control.
    Thanks for the read.

  48. Jim P. on July 18th, 2008 8:35 am

    Hang in there CZ, you don’t ever fail until you stop trying.

  49. Camila on May 31st, 2009 4:35 am

    Hi Alex, I was directed to your blog when I searched about people deciding not to drink alcohol. You will be just fine. Hard? yeah, but you are committed within yourself and you have made it public. That right there, is a winning step!

    I am not a big drinker. I even found weird googling this, because all searches would result in AA info, and people with real alcohol problems. I am 37, and i have never made a big scene after drinking or have made a fool out of myself, BUT, last december, i was drinking in my house with a friend, and we kept doing shots and beer.. when she left, i came in and started bringing past issues to my live-in boyfriend, things we were already over, trust issues that were a thing of the past and the next day he was so mad, because i was on my “argument mode, like everytime i get a buzz” and argued for over 3 hours (I only recall like 15 minutes) and he said everytime i would get buzzed w alcohol, I would start arguing and bringing the past and bad memories… I felt ashamed and sad at myself, because I knew that if I was sober that night I would have not bring things over again. That day, without telling him i decided to go 30 days without drinking, and it was December! parties, events everywhere and i did not take a sip. I felt great and when he asked me why i was doing this, since i only drink “sometimes” ( I dont even drink on weekdays)i told him, i was damaging our relationship. And i wanted to stop that. A buzz was not worth it. These months i have had a few beers, but for some reason something keeps telling me to just try to quit 100%. I always drink when I am sad, but its hard to just drink one. Am I exagerating? Sorry for turning the attention to myself on this message, first time I write in a blog. I just felt your honesty and felt comfortable to open up. Thank you for reading. C.

  50. beth on August 21st, 2009 7:35 pm

    Today is 100 days without alcohol. Im feeling pretty beat up. I ve become depressed and angry. Im becoming a dam hermit.

    maybe its the day. Its probably PMS. I should feel like celebrating but I forget how to.

  51. Adel on August 23rd, 2009 7:49 pm

    Good work Alex, i wish you all the best in your quitting, im a heavy drinker, i spend my day with it, i wish i can quit someday,i tried to quit but it makes me stall, people some times asks me you dont look ok, i felt less energized and less responsive, im thinking what takes me there, i need an alternative or support. asifadeel@hotmail.com

  52. Clive Holland on January 28th, 2010 9:29 pm

    Hi Alex,

    Well I hope you made it! I myself am having a battle with the fire water right now. Told myself to stop for 4 months and I’m struggling at 27 days in. Gotta stay focused. Anyway I wish you all the best and thanks for the interesting post.

    Cheers mate, Clive.
    (That’s just a common salutation in England bye the way -it does’nt mean go get a drink!)

  53. Alex Blackwell on January 28th, 2010 11:25 pm

    @ Clive: 27 days is Awesome Clive. I will be pulling for you!

  54. wayne on May 14th, 2010 7:24 pm

    I quit on May 5th. Its very hard when I was raised with it and have been a factory worker all my life. It is such a habit and where I live its like a culture. I am so tired of the merry go round. I am either drunk hung over or both. Once i start I can not stop some times for days. It has ruined many parts and relationships in my life. It has clouded my judgement and decision making far too long. It is killing me.
    Thanks for the inspiration knowing I am not alone.

    Wayne

  55. Alex Blackwell on May 15th, 2010 9:33 pm

    @ Wayne: One day at one time my friend. And when you are in the middle of a hard day, know you are loved -always.

  56. JP on July 15th, 2010 8:28 pm

    Wayne – just do it.

    Today I am 128 days free of tobacco and just 6 days free of booze.

    I am waiting for all the bad stuff to happen, but, here is how I handle it.

    A quick prayer -
    I control what goes in, you are in charge of what happens next.

    With this kind of meaning – I am going to at all costs NOT have a drink today – my body, like puberty will probably change, look funny, or feel outta whack, all this stuff I leave in your hands. I know that eventually I will get used to the new me, so I patiently wait for it.
    I thank you for the xx years on this planet and I’ve had it good so far . . I am just trying to make it better for myself now.

    Also pick up a new not related habit that you will allow yourself- well at least that is what I am doing.

  57. todd on August 31st, 2010 11:50 am

    ive read through all the texts and its a fine collection of heart felt stories and obstacles…… alot like the big book. OK maybe more modern and i can relate as a 32 year old male with alot of the same thoughts , trials ands tribulations! thanks for sharing. Wish everyone the best and ill pray i can eventually figure why so many can and i cant!

  58. todd on August 31st, 2010 11:56 am

    eventually?

  59. Alex Blackwell on September 1st, 2010 11:06 pm

    @ I’m pulling for you Todd!

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