Thoughts on my six-month anniversary
25 February 2025
Six months ago today, I had my last alcoholic drink – hopefully, my last ever. It’s been half a year of growth, reflection, and learning, and I wanted to share some of the things that have stood out along the way:
Discomfort won’t kill you
I am painfully introverted, and I used to reach for a drink to take the edge off, to make social situations easier, or, over the year before getting sober, numb difficult feelings. Learning to sit with discomfort, whether it’s anxiety, sadness, or awkwardness, has been hard but empowering. Those feelings pass.
Clarity is underrated
Sobriety has given me a kind of mental clarity I didn’t know I was missing. My thoughts are sharper, my decisions feel more intentional, and I wake up without the fog I had grown so used to.
Socialising without alcohol is awkward (but worth it)
At the beginning I thought I’d miss out, or that people would notice and judge me. People don’t notice and the ones who matter don’t care whether you’re drinking or not. Conversations feel more real and the best part is – I remember them.
Self-respect feels better than a buzz
There’s a quiet pride in keeping a promise to yourself. Every day that I stay sober, I feel a little stronger. The confidence that comes from knowing I can rely on myself is far better than any temporary high.
You’re stronger than you think
Cravings pass. Triggers lose their power. The first few weeks felt impossible at times, but they weren’t. Every challenge I’ve faced over the past six months has proven I’m capable of more than I thought.
Life is still fun (and sometimes more so)
I worried that life without alcohol would be dull, but it’s not. The laughter is still loud. The memories are clearer. The mornings after are better. And I’ve learned to be fully present, for both the good times and the hard ones.
This journey hasn’t been easy, and I know it’s far from over. But today, I’m grateful. I’m grateful for the lessons, the clarity, and the chance to keep choosing this path, one day at a time.
Sarah
TGIF Sea Point
