Giving Sobriety a Shot

Growing up in a household where drinking was a constant point of contention, I missed out on the part of childhood where you learn how to maneuver through life without alcohol taking the lead role.

From the negative impact alcohol had on my childhood, I thought I was determined to steer clear of alcohol as I grew older, but instead, my determination turned into rationalization. I rationalized that the way I was drinking was somewhat different than that of the environment I grew up in. Turns out, expensive wines, shots to celebrate promotions or a big sale is just as physically and mentally toxic as drinking your troubles away, playing beer pong, or crushing cans at the cottage.

Growing up in a small town, drinking was a constant in all social settings. Being a very social person by nature, I caved and started around the age of 15, giving me my first bout of alcohol poisoning the same year.

University encouraged it even more. Parties were either centred around kegs or beer pong tables. `

Hearing stories of drinking/substance abuse in the marketing industry, I was nervous to join. 

I remember my first job in marketing. It didn't take long before I was introduced to the “free beer fridge” as a highlight of the office. This was followed by a celebratory offsite that same week with all-you-can-drink. My seniors, those who I aspired to, leading the charge. 

That first day was the start of 7+ years of free drinks, Monday - Friday, at every sports game, lunch, dinner, and bar, with clients, coworkers, leaders in the industry, mentors. 

As it does for many in the industry, drinking turned into abusing other substances. There was a way for us to have longer nights and more fun - or what I thought was more fun. The Marketing Industry not only glamorizes, it encourages alcohol and substance abuse as a means to move your career forward. 

Somehow with all of those contributing factors, I still blamed myself for being too weak to stop abusing drugs and alcohol. I hit a wall at 30 years old. 

After hearing of a more unconventional method of reducing/giving up substances, an approach that could be considered cognitive rewiring, I haven’t touched anything for 213 days. It was 16 years ago, when I was 15 years old that I last remember going more than a month without any booze or substances.

I haven’t changed who I hang out with, who I am friends with, or where I go out. I cut out booze and substances one day at a time. I am incredibly proud to say that it was 213 days ago that I turned my life around and realized that I could celebrate (and remember) my 32nd birthday, my brother’s 30th, attend my first NFL game in Chicago, experience an incredible New Years Eve with my friends, get through not only an industry Christmas party, but a Scottish Christmas, all while being sober. I've probably been offered over 1000 drinks in those 213 days, but it's felt incredible knowing that I am the one in control of what I choose to put in my body, I am in control of my physical and mental well-being, and that I am 213 times more confident that I don't need substances to connect and create lifelong memories with my friends, whoever they are, and wherever we go.

If you can relate to any part of my experience, and wish to connect, I encourage you to reach out. I'm one click away :)