What does it take to get Sober?

Where to even begin on this one. For me, it took years and years, which was a slow burn of destroying myself and eventually looking in the mirror one day and not knowing who I was looking at. I knew it wasn't what I wanted anymore or who I wanted to be. I had dreams and I had goals and all I ever did was talk about them and nothing ever materialised.

Its been a transformative journey that's been challenging and deeply personal that has required commitment, determination and support. Key elements were acceptance that I needed to acknowledge and accept the need to change. Self awareness was that crucial first step. I had to be willing to make necessary changes which meant letting go of harmful habits, toxic relationships and negative influences. I had to surround myself with a small but strong support network which were made up of few friends, family and my support group who understood my journey and provided encouragement and guidance. I got professional help from a therapist who provided me with tools to work through the trauma related reason for my excessive drinking to help me overcome challenges. I had to replace destructive behaviours with healthy coping mechanisms which included physical activities like getting back to gym, practicing mindfulness, pursuing my writing hobbies and newly found podcast passion as a creative outlet. I had to make positive changes in my lifestyle, adopting a balanced diet, getting regular exercise and so importantly prioritising my self care to improve overall well being. I had to learn to take accountability for my actions and choices and hold myself accountable for my recovery journey and I had to actively participate in my own healing process. Above everything else I had to exercise patience and perseverance and understand that recovery is a gradual process and that setbacks do happen. I learned to be patient with myself and remained persistent in my efforts especially when I was faced with challenges.

And I take every day one day at a time. Im still healing and Im still learning. Im always learning.

Food for thought - what was the turning point when you decide enough is enough?