Day 110: July 19, 2024
What are My Thoughts Today?
"You don't need willpower to resist something that you realize doesn't benefit you. You only need willpower to resist something that you think provides a benefit."
The above quote is from today's lesson on The Path. And wow... That is truly the secret to staying Alcohol-Free! Once I have completely internalized the idea that alcohol provides absolutely no meaningful benefits to me, then I will finally stop wanting it. I am definitely in a better place than I was before I started The Path, in terms of recognizing the downsides of drinking, but I don't think I have fully internalized the truth yet. There is still inner conflict.
For example, sometimes family members or friends (who have overall been very supportive of my choice to go Alcohol-Free), will still occasionally say things to me like "Well, having one or two drinks isn't really that destructive..." I don't think they are trying to pressure me. My guess is they are trying to reassure themselves of the validity of their own choices. Either way, this idea that alcohol provides no meaningful benefits to the human race is extremely counter-cultural. Intellectual and social reinforcement is important right now especially, because it's easy to get seduced by society's messaging around drinking.
I have been reading a book called "Sober Vibes" and in it she said that it's very important to be aware of the fact that between Days 30 and 60, you will start questioning if you really had that much of a problem. You'll start wondering if maybe you can have a few drinks now and then. She said no one is immune from this thinking, so don't assume you'll be above it!
It's so true... I can feel the resistance to living AF to creeping back in from time to time. It is important for me to stay connected with others on the Alcohol-Free Path, so that I don't slip back into the world's way of thinking about alcohol. And that's why I am taking a full year off drinking, to form new habits and give my brain more time to get properly rewired.
The quote by author Gary Keller in today's lesson on The Path spoke to this idea: "Anyone who dreams of an uncommon life eventually discovers there is no choice but to seek an uncommon approach to living it." We have to get comfortable living outside the box!
Additional Thoughts:
When it comes to the finite resource of willpower, the only time I've really had to fall back on it is at restaurants β when I could choose to order alcohol (because even if I go in with a plan, technically I know I could change it). But so far I've been able to manage this! Otherwise, I just don't keep alcohol at home, and I always bring AF drinks with me when I go to someone else's house so that I never have to wonder what I might choose to drink.
But I do think overall my willpower is growing a little stronger. In the past couple weeks I have surprised myself by making choices to do something I would normally put off because I know I will be happier once it's done... Things like answering emails, which I usually dread. I think this might be a subtle sign that I'm growing more comfortable with the idea that I am empowered to make choices that benefit me, even when they're not easy or fun. I feel a teeny bit more able to handle things, such as uncomfortable sensations or activities. πͺπ»
AF Days Since May 23, 2024: 57
My Why: To have freedom from addictions, to create more space in my life, to honor my body / mind / spirit, to feel vibrant and empowered in my daily life, and to make my corner of the world a better, more peaceful, more loving & more beautiful place.
What's One Awesome Thing that Happened Yesterday because I Chose Not to Drink?
I slept great!
Daily Affirmations:
1) I choose to live Alcohol-Free.
2) I respect and honor myself.
3) I am worthy of love and care.
4) I give myself patience to heal.
5) I maintain healthy boundaries.
6) I have compassion for others.
7) I create beauty all around me.