My relationship with alcohol is complicated. I love a glass of red wine. It soothes me at the end of a difficult day, and if I am going to be honest, 2020 has been one of the most challenging years ever. It's so easy to reach for a glass of wine at the end of the day to help relax and wash away the day's worries, but, is this serving me?
This year has been full of challenges. 2019 was no better. Our family experienced a sudden and unexpected death of my father-in-law. This sent our family into crisis mode. Just when we were getting a handle on this tragic loss, COVID hit, bringing with it a whole set of new challenges: Distance learning for 3 children, a husband who works reluctantly from home, pivoting my business. Almost all of my money-making business opportunities have been cancelled, business is down, and either I stay strong and positive, or I throw in the towel and give up. I choose to stay positive.
And where does the alcohol come in? As many of us have heard, COVID quarantine has increased the amount of drinking by the average American, I am no different. It became way to easy to drink at night to ease the pain of an everchanging world. And, I love red wine. Did I feel better though? Was I a better mom and wife? Was I a better business owner? Did I feel better in the morning? No, no and no.
So, this month of October, I am choosing to abstain from alcohol. At the end of the month, I will reevaluate to see where I am at, but for now, I feel great! I still have moments of doubt and frustration, but at least I know that I am making a healthy choice.
Have you done a Sober October, or a Dry January? Are you a drinker or are you sober? I would love to hear your stories and how you deal with stress.
