Wow, it’s been a while since I posted last…
I guess this is probably due to the fact that I’m finding it easier to go day-to-day without drinking and I’m focusing more on changing some of my ways of thinking and my viewpoint on life.
Two weeks came and went since I’ve had a drink. Today is day 17 and I’m going strong. Sure, I’ve been tempted to grab some Pit Bull malt liquor a couple evenings, but the temptation hasn’t been strong enough to deviate.
However, I really do like the taste of beer — it’s one of the only lightly carbonated drinks that’s not sweet that I’ve found. So, I’ve bought a few 12 packs of O’Douls non-alcoholic beer to enjoy in the evenings. I actually don’t really miss the alcohol or being tired after drinking, so the non-alcoholic beer is good for satiating the craving for the flavor without the side effects. The stuff should be cheaper though!
I’m making progress on the “attitude of gratitude” and trying to be more positive. It’s definitely challenging since I’ve always had a rather dark, dry, and sarcastic sense of humor even when I was a kid. It’s how my Dad is and how I am. As such, it’s difficult for me to stand in front of a mirror and say “Today is going to be great!” as I just imagine some comedian doing that for a stand-up act or something.
But, I’m trying to be more positive in a way that fits with my style. I’ve been trying to think of things to be grateful for in the morning when I wake-up, as taught in the 30 day program. Also, I’ve been using the imagery techniques to imagine the life I want and who I want to be. It’s still easy to get turned-around and think negatively, but at I’m spending some time being and acting positive, which is a positive change by itself!
Day 17 of the 30 Day Sobriety Solution opened with a story about one of Dave’s students who was just rather “blah” about life and stayed in a “safe zone” all the time — meaning he didn’t get really happy, nor did he get really depressed. When I heard that, I might have thought Dave was talking about me after our phone call last Saturday, if only the recording hadn’t been made far prior to the phone call.
Anyway, the sobriety journey is going well and positive progress is being made! Now, I just need work to cooperate and open the job opening I’m hoping for so I can put that puzzle piece into place. I think if I can get my larger goal of moving to another state in motion, combined with what I’ve been learning and doing the past couple weeks, that would be a great combination!