Even though alcohol is legal to purchase for any individual over the age of 21, it’s a substance with the most potent and addictive qualities associated with it. And unlike harder drugs that flood our communities, it’s socially accepted without our society and a common pastime for millions of adults across the nation. Given these characteristics, it’s no surprise why alcohol grips the lives of so many individuals within the rehabilitation system. What about the individual who is on the fence about becoming sober but can’t see the benefits? For them, a sober lifestyle seems boring, bland and restrictive, but the opposite is true. If this description hits close to home, here’s why staying sober is better than remaining intoxicated.
Clarity and Foresight
If there’s one characteristic that encapsulates the realm of alcoholism, it’s the inability to see into the future. For an alcoholic, the best moment of their life is right here, right now. Once the alcohol enters their mouth and fills their bloodstream, everything is fine, and their future is bright. However, excessive drinking numbs their ability to plan for the future and engage with positive actions that promote a healthy lifestyle. If you’re still on the fence about sobriety, consider how your health, wealth, relationships and mental well-being will grow without alcohol. Moreover, imagine a lifestyle where your mornings don’t consist of nausea, vomiting and skull-splitting headaches that never seem to end. Instead, envision yourself waking up early, exercising, getting your belongings together and tackling the day with newfound motivation and a clear head. The intoxication from a productive day far surpasses the short-lived euphoria that alcohol provides, and unlike drinking, productivity is healthy!
Relationships
For alcoholics who frequent bars and gathering areas to get their drinks, their lives are filled with mundane relationships. Although they may think the individuals they converse with under the influence are life-long friends, the relationship ends as soon as the establishment closes for the evening. When you’re sober and staying healthy, the friendships and romantic partners you establish are there for good. No longer will you roll over and see a phone logged with random phone calls, but loving and caring texts from people who are genuinely interested in you. We know you’re a unique individual with a lot to offer, so why sell yourself short by forming surface-level relationships with random bar patrons and club-goers?
Free Time for Personal Growth
Once the alcohol gets into an addict’s system, it seems time speeds up, and the evening is over before it started. Any drinker who has overcome their issues will tell you the same thing: by the time you’re ready to party, everyone is going to bed and getting ready for work the next day. If you value time and want to spend it the best you can, getting sober will help you achieve that goal. Many alcoholics who’ve become sober are shocked to see how much time they wasted with their addiction. In your free time, you could learn how to play guitar, fix your car, write computer programs, hike or read captivating literature. You’ll be amazed at the person you become in your spare time once alcohol is no longer a part of your lifestyle.
Your Family and Friends
For alcoholics who have drunk their entire adult lives, they’ve never really met their relatives and loved ones. Their interactions with the people closest to them were blurred and dampened by the alcohol flowing through their system. Once alcohol is no longer an option, you will find yourself amazed and overflowing with love when you learn of the caring nature and intelligent complexities of the people you interact with daily. For the first time in years, you will get to meet the individuals who never gave up on you, and more importantly, see the people who love you unconditionally.
Give Yourself a Chance to Succeed
If you or someone you love is currently struggling to kick their addiction and can’t see the light at the end of the tunnel, realize there’s still hope. By committing yourself to sobriety even when times seem bleak, you’re investing in your future and the potential you’re capable of achieving. A few years from now, when addiction is no longer part of your daily life, you will thank yourself for seeking help. If you’re ready to get started, we’re willing to provide the information and services that will kickstart your journey towards a sober life. Call us at 954-523-1167.