Getting sober is no easy feat, and it comes with a lot of conscious, difficult decisions to not drink. For this reason, many people start their sober journey and quit when the going gets tough. But, your sobriety is important, and your reasoning for it cannot be easily dismissed. As you battle with sobriety, or alcoholism, it can make a big difference to set some sober goals— and stick to them. So, we’re here to offer support, and a little bit of help in setting goals and getting sober. No one said it would be easy, but you can make it a little bit easier…
Setting Sober Goals: Making Commitments and Sticking to them
The first step to setting sober goals, and sticking with them, is to understand why you’re doing it. Every person will have a different reasoning behind their want to lead a sober lifestyle— but each unique reason is perfectly acceptable. After all, you want to better your life quality— and there’s nothing negative to be said about it. If you’re struggling with the decision, or struggling to stick with your commitment, take some time and make a list. What can you gain by getting sober? How has alcohol negatively affected your life thus far? What will you spend the saved money on? Whatever your motivator is, use it.
Hold yourself accountable, or ask someone else to
Holding yourself accountable is one of the most difficult things to do— especially after a difficult day. It’s inevitable that after a long, difficult day, the words “I need a drink” will cross your mind. It can be easy to convince yourself that you’ll get sober next week, you’ll reach your sober goals at another time, or that it’s not really that important. If you struggle with this, and holding yourself accountable to reach your goals, ask someone close to you to do it. If you’re going to AA, a sponsor can hold this role for you. Or, if you’re going at it alone, reach out to a close friend or family member.
Plan activities that are not centered on alcohol, and have some fun
Most people who drink heavily often think that alcohol is at the center of their fun times. It seems like every concert, dinner out, friends outing, and so forth— involves drinking. While this is the case for many adults, it doesn’t have to be. Hiking, tubing, playing sports, painting, pottery… All of these things, along with tons of other options, focus on something else besides drinking, and are a great way to spend your time with friends.
Getting sober is hard. But, it is inevitably worth the hard work. Whatever your reasoning, alcohol does not have to be a central pillar of your life. So, set some goals, have some fun without alcohol, and encourage your friends to be supportive. We wish you luck in this time of hard work, willfulness, and new experiences. You’re doing great, and this will all be worth the hard work.