2018 is my year of sobriety. Why did I choose sobriety ?
Consistency, self appreciation, challenge, work, focus, clarity and goals.
In December of 2017 I went to a holiday party for my industry and saw what all the top players were earning throughout the year. I knew these kind of results not only demand determination, consistency, focus, training but also sacrifice.
After a devastating start to 2017, 2018 has been the best year of my life.
Some sacrifice their family time, gym time, or their vacation time. For me, it would be time at the bar.
I love drinking. I love the social time built around drinking. At times I’ve even considered if I am my best self while drinking. You know stage 1, stage 2 buzz where conversations flows, inspirational thoughts and stories are shared, while charm and exuberance are the natural state of the exchange? Yeah I loved that, and I did it for over 15 years.
This led me down a path that not only encouraged drinking day in day out, but also allowed me to spend money in a frivolous manner. Mind you, this was an investment I had told myself. An investment in time with other people, learning, asking questions, diving deep. I mean thats what I do, I go deep. Yet, excessive drinking resulted in lost time, wasted money, and self abuse going down the road of excess. None of which actually built my bank account.
After seeing the results that were possible, I knew I had to make a sacrifice. Drinking always held a stigma, ‘if I let go of drinking who would I be?’ Would I be a better person? Save more money? Have more time to myself? The answer to all this is yes.
I decided that 2018 was gonna be my sober year. I didn’t wait for the new year to kick in. It was Dec 16, after a particularly harrowing hangover. I knew the results I wanted. Drinking would be my sacrifice. I started early to use the momentum of the decision to get me through the holiday season. Yes I was sober over Christmas, New Years, the Super Bowl, Valentines Day, St. Pattys, and even my own birthday party. Which was awesome event !
‘results not only demand determination, consistency, focus, training but also sacrifice’
It’s amazing. Every week when I see my friends they are full of congrats and ‘wow thats impressive.’
For me the challenge is in deciding, then doing it. I want to be an example.I want to check myself to make sure I know who is in control. Me ? Or habits ?
2018 has been an incredible year and I am just getting to the 6 month mark. Opportunities that were not even possible before I made the decision came to fruition. My confidence has soared but not in an outwardly sense. When I say, ‘ I am excellent’ I am. Thats it. I don’t even need to back it up with a story!
I wanted a clear mind to get the results, build my releationship, have clear communication, reach my goals and learn self control.
All of this has been achieved and more. Yet I know there is temptation at every turn. I am so grateful to make the right choices to support my goals day in day out. After a devastating start to 2017, 2018 has been the best year of my life.
‘consistency, self appreciation, challenge, work, focus, clarity and goals’
I am proud, full of life and supportive of all my friends living their own lives. What is right for you or me, may not be right for another person. It isn’t our place to judge or push our ideals. We must accept that and support our loved ones.
I have a deep sense of strength within and in full support of speaking to others from a sense of love and encouragement. I am so proud my friends support me.
Maybe now is the time to take a look at sacrifice. What would you be willing to give up to accomplish your dreams and have more ease in life ?