With Alcohol Awareness Month coming to an end I have been reminiscing about the past 9.8 years that I haven’t had a drink. The photos above may look like fun but the girl behind the smile was unfulfilled and insecure. I didn't know how to have fun without drinking. If alcohol wasn't at the function I was the person planning the after-party and likely to be the careless one to drive drunk.
It hasn't been an easy journey, but it has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I have learned so much about myself, my strength, and my resilience over the years, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share my story.
My journey of sobriety began with a moment of clarity on September 15, 2013. I realized that my addiction to alcohol was controlling my life and that I needed to make a change. I was tired of feeling powerless and helpless, and I knew that I needed to take control of my life if I wanted to experience true happiness and fulfillment.
The first few months were the hardest. I had to learn to live without the crutch of alcohol, and it was a difficult adjustment. I had to find new ways to cope with stress and anxiety, and I had to learn how to face my problems head-on instead of trying to escape them.
But despite the challenges, I kept pushing forward. I knew that sobriety was the best thing for me, and I was determined to make it work. I started attending support groups and therapy, and I connected with others who were on a similar journey. I found comfort in knowing that I was not alone, and I was inspired by the stories of others who had overcome addiction.
One of the most significant benefits of sobriety has been the clarity of mind it has brought me. When I was drinking, my mind was clouded. But now, I am able to see the world in a whole new light. I am able to make better decisions and have a clear perspective on my life. I have the ability to focus on my goals and aspirations and to pursue them with confidence and purpose.
Of course, there have been challenges along the way. There have been times when I have been tempted to drink alcohol again, and there have been times when I have faced difficult situations that have tested my sobriety. The hardest was the death of my youngest brother in a car accident in 2015, followed by multiple miscarriages in 2019 and 2020. But each time, I have been able to stay strong and stay true to my commitment to sobriety.
One of the most significant aspects of my journey has been the support of others. I have been fortunate to have a strong support system of family and friends who have been there for me every step of the way. They have encouraged me, motivated me, and helped me to stay on track when things got tough. Without their support, I don't know if I would have been able to make it this far.
I have also found support in the sober community. I have met so many amazing people who have shared their stories with me and offered me their support and guidance. They have shown me that sobriety is not just about giving up drugs and alcohol, but it is also about living a fulfilling and meaningful life.
Through my journey of sobriety, I have learned so much about myself. I have discovered my strengths and weaknesses, and I have learned how to face my problems with courage and determination. I have also learned that sobriety is not just about giving up alcohol, but it is about making a commitment to living a better life.
If you are struggling with addiction, know that you are not alone. There is help available, and there are people who care about you and want to see you succeed. Sobriety is not an easy journey, but it is one that is worth taking. It will challenge you, but it will also reward you in ways you never thought possible.
To anyone who is on their own journey of sobriety, I want to say that you are capable of achieving great things. You have the strength and resilience to overcome any obstacle that comes your way. And most importantly, you have the power.
The woman smiling in the photos below is proud and determined with clarity and passion. She's traveled the world, built a successful company, married her soulmate, and brought life into the world - all without needing the crutch of alcohol throughout all of the ups and downs that were encountered along the way.
To read more about my wild ride through life feel free to check out this blog I published in 2020. Thanks for your interest and support!
Lindsay Johnson
Founder & CEO, FitPros
FitPros is a turn-key wellness provider empowering people to take charge of their personal health.
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