Are you Sober Curious? How Sobriety Became My Anchor

Picture this: life on a seemingly endless treadmill, where alcohol felt like both the fuel and the escape. For years, I thought drinking added so much to my life — fun, relaxation, confidence. But as I approach my two-year sobriety milestone, I now see it for what it was: a mask, a numbing agent, a barrier to real happiness.

Sobriety has been a game-changer for me, not just as a lifestyle choice but as a life-saving decision. I want to share my story — not as a sermon but as an invitation to reflect on the role alcohol plays in your own life.

The Turning Point

I was stuck in a cycle where alcohol wasn't just a social lubricant; it was a crutch. It numbed the pain I didn't want to face and kept me in a fog where I could forget how unhappy I was. At my lowest point, drinking amplified my depression and anxiety to the point where I felt I was losing control. It made me question whether I even wanted to keep going.

Thankfully, before things got darker, I sought help. Time in the hospital and ongoing therapy gave me the tools to face my issues head-on. And since that turning point, I haven't touched a drop. Life hasn't been the same — and I mean that in the best way possible.

The Benefits of Sobriety

Improved Mental Health

I used to see my psychologist every two weeks and my psychiatrist every month, and I attended group therapy regularly. Now, I check in with these professionals only once or twice a year. Sobriety didn't just lighten my mental load; it gave me a whole new perspective.

Physical Transformation

With no booze in my system, my body recovers optimally. I've lost over 15 kilograms and feel stronger and fitter than I ever did in my 20s. My workouts have improved dramatically, and I no longer carry around the "empty" calories from alcohol.

Stronger Relationships

It might sound strange, but before sobriety, I actually began to isolate myself more — pushing people away, avoiding social situations, and retreating into solitude. I convinced myself that everyone had either forgotten about me or disliked me, and I became my own worst saboteur. I actively pushed people away to ensure they’d stop inviting me to things, sparing me the anxiety of making excuses to leave—or even to show up in the first place. Therapy taught me how vital community is for our mental wellbeing. Now, I treasure my connections with family and friends. I've also found like-minded people who share my passions for fitness, mindfulness, and self-improvement.

Financial Perks

No more extravagant bar tabs or impulsive spending on nights out. Instead, my money goes toward experiences and hobbies that genuinely enrich my life. Fitness outings, coffee walks, and brunches are my new go-to ways to connect with people.

Career Clarity

Sobriety gave me the focus to take charge of my career and even start new ventures. The mental fog is gone, replaced with razor-sharp clarity and motivation to pursue meaningful goals.

Better Sleep

Gone are the days of passing out after a bender and waking up groggy or anxious. My evenings are calm, my sleep is restorative, and my mornings start with purpose.

The Challenges—and Perks—of Sober Dating

Though I’m not currently dating, I was fascinated by a recent TIME article that explored the world of sober dating. The piece highlighted how deeply entwined alcohol is with modern dating culture: from meeting over cocktails to relying on drinks as a social lubricant. Without alcohol, dating can feel like uncharted territory — more awkward silences, raw nerves, and a heightened sense of vulnerability.

But for those who embrace sober dating, the benefits are profound. The article noted that sober daters often experience deeper, more meaningful connections. Without alcohol clouding the moment, they have greater clarity about what they truly want in a partner. They also report feeling more confident, knowing they’re making decisions based on genuine feelings rather than the haze of a few drinks.

Sober Curious: A Growing Movement

The trend toward sobriety or "sober curiosity" is gaining traction, particularly among Millennials and Gen Z. Whether it's for better health, improved mental clarity, or financial reasons, more people are questioning the role alcohol plays in their lives. Studies show alcohol abstinence is becoming more common, and the market for non-alcoholic drinks is booming. Celebrities like Tom Holland and wellness influencers have also shared their sober journeys, proving that you can thrive without alcohol.

What About You?

If you've ever wondered whether alcohol is helping or hindering your life, I encourage you to take a moment to reflect. Maybe try a month of sobriety, like Dry July or FebFast, or cut back to see how it feels. Are your relationships, health, or goals being impacted by drinking? What could life look like without it?

If you're curious about making a change, I'm here. Feel free to reach out — I'd be more than happy to share tips, support, or simply cheer you on as you explore the benefits of sobriety.

Are you sober curious? Let's start a conversation. 🌈