This year marks my 4th sober Christmas.
Honestly, I can hardly believe it – and I’m so flipping proud of myself.
I made the decision to stop drinking in 2021 after facing some health challenges that required medication which shouldn’t be combined with booze. Long before that, I had known deep down that my relationship with alcohol wasn’t healthy. A glass (or three) of wine every evening and weekend binges had become the norm. While most people in my life wouldn’t have described me as having a “problem,” I knew in my heart that it wasn’t ideal. I wasn’t living my best, most authentic life.
Since quitting alcohol (and later stopping smoking after 20+ years!), I’ve tried various strategies to support my sobriety. I’ve attended AA meetings, joined online communities, and absorbed wisdom through books and podcasts. Along the way, I’ve learned some powerful lessons.
One of the most important things I’ve discovered is that abstinence alone doesn’t make you truly sober. Sobriety is so much more than simply not drinking. It’s a state of mind, a way of being. It’s about balance, healthier thinking, and making decisions that align with your values and goals. Without those elements, you can end up what some call a “dry drunk” – abstinent, yes, but still stuck in the same unhealthy patterns of thought.
These days, my approach to sobriety is grounded in open conversations and honesty about my journey. That doesn’t mean it’s always easy. Far from it. Over these Christmas holidays, I’ve found myself struggling. Even this Christmas Day, the urge to have “just one” drink became so overwhelming that I had to step away from everyone – family, friends, laughter – and take a 2 hour nap to reset.
When things feel hard, I lean on my husband, who’s an incredible listener, and on a dear friend who has walked a similar path. Talking about my struggles is a huge part of staying grounded.
I share all of this because I want to be real about what sober living looks like. It isn’t easy, but it is so worth it. Sobriety is 10% hard and 90% reward.
If you’re thinking about living 2025 strong and sober, I’m here for you. As both a life coach and a qualified addiction recovery coach, I can support you in taking those first steps – whether that means choosing sobriety or simply creating a healthier, more intentional life. I’ll walk alongside you as you navigate this rewarding, transformative path.
When you’re ready, reach out. The key is that you have to want this for yourself. And when you do, I’ll be here.
With love,
Linda
P.S.
Being a coach in recovery is challenging as I’ve been criticised for being “too vulnerable and open” about my life. I’d be interested in your feedback on that, please feel free to DM me or leave a comment.
