Sopping drinking gave me something that id lost and that was optimism
When I was younger there was lots to feel optimistic about but alcohol narrowed my vision and dulled my self belief.
It also ruined my mental health, my confidence and kept me feeling trapped
Stopping drinking made me go back to things I enjoyed when I was younger, at a time when I felt there was more potential and possibility.
Were told a lot of things about not drinking and most of them were about what’s id lose.
That id be less social but actually alcohol made me less social for days after because id be riddled with hanxiety wanting to hide away from the outside world.
I was told not drinking was boring but id always think id be more boring the next day in bed with a hangover.
Were sold the idea that alcohol gives us confidence, but my confidence has grown since I stopped drinking because back then I felt like a shell.
I back myself more ~ I’ve taken more positive risks, started public speaking, gained the skills to build Arclett and pushed myself outside my comfort zone.
I was told id have nothing to do if I didn’t drink but ive got my weekends back and life feels more expansive.
Quitting 11 years ago gave me optimism because I was taking control of something that was detrimental.
And in a world that can feel pretty uncertain right now with AI and cost of living, not drinking has given me a level of stability and fulfilment I didn’t have when I drank.
And for that, I’ll always be grateful.
