Sober Summer Final Update
Best Experiment Ever!
(Note: This essay was in included in my Sunday Snippets last week. I decided to post it separately as well. Enjoy!)
I’m REALLY proud of myself! And not because I grimaced and white knuckled my way through a Sober Summer. As a matter of fact, it was quite the opposite. It was an experiment in opening up my world through curiosity, learning from others and having a plan with intention. Yes, I did have the occasional craving but I never felt like I had to use willpower or suffer through the best 3 months in Cleveland without a drink. Here are some of my biggest learnings.
Possibilities NOT Fear was my motivation. As I mentioned in an earlier post, it was listening to Andy Rampage on the Rich Roll podcast that set me off on this journey. Andy was a middle-lane drinker who felt like his life could be richer without alcohol. He was right!
Preparation Before Taking The Leap. I didn’t just say to myself, “starting tomorrow, I will stop drinking.” When has that ever worked? Instead, I practiced what I preach to my coaching clients, and used Dr. Judson Brewer’s framework for Habit Change. This process involves mapping out your habit loops, paying attention while engaging in them so that you can build up some disenchantment.
Make it Fun. Just because something isn’t easy doesn’t mean that it can’t be fun. I had a great time making mocktails and sharing them with my friends and family. I also enjoyed trying new NA drinks each week and enlisting some family members to do the same.
Share Your Plan With Another Human. (or your newsletter audience!) There is something to be said for saying your intention out loud. This simple act can make it feel real. You don’t have to sing your intention from the rooftops BUT sing it to at least one supportive person. You may be amazed and inspired by the stories and recommendations that you receive from others.
Soak In The Positive Vibes. To keep the motivation going, don’t forget to soak up all the benefits. Taking a moment to appreciate a good night’s sleep or reflecting on your energy levels can help to propel you forward. The biggest thing that I noticed was my running. My legs felt fresh and it didn’t take me as long to feel warmed up. It was cool to notice this.
So what’s next for me? Do I plan to crack open a bottle of champagne and celebrate my success? Right now, the answer is NO WAY. The sense of freedom that I feel is TOO good to give up.
If you have an experiment of your own that you would like to try, let me know. My mini-coaching sessions could be the jumpstart that you need!
I really like how you focused on the freedom aspect. It was kind of the same when I quit smoking. At the time I was still a heavy traveler and the FREEDOM of not needing to leave the airport and squeeze in one more smoke and then standing in the security line again was amazing! And no more standing outside a restaurant in the cold, etc.
It's funny you don't realize how much of a prisoner you are until you AREN'T!!