Hi Friend,

I hope you are doing well!! I know that holidays, family reunions, cookouts, shoot, even lawnmowing, and gardening were triggers for me to drink so as I was thinking about you I thought I would shoot you some of my thoughts that could help!

1. MAKE A DECISION NOW! If you want to stay sober you need to make a decision every moment of every day so decide now you are not going to drink no matter what.

2. PLAN AHEAD- you have to anticipate the triggers and temptations. Bring your own healthy or non-alcoholic beverage.. Have a way out in case it gets too challenging. Drive your own car so you can leave when you want or bring a sober friend to help you overcome the challenges

3. STOP THINKING YOU ARE MISSING OUT- We have a bad habit of ruminating on what we don't have which leads to jealousy, hurt, and even anger. I'll admit it, I have in fact been angry that some people can drink and not lose control. I wish that could have been me. (Actually, I don't wish that anymore because there is no amount of alcohol that is good for you)

4. MAKE IT AN OBSERVATION EXPERIMENT- If I am going to an event where people are drinking I find it fun to just observe and listen. It makes me very grateful that I am not the one embarrassing myself anymore or getting so drunk I'm throwing up or hungover the next day.

5. DON'T GO! If it is an event that you may be triggered at just don't go. If it is drinking at home, get the booze out of the house and don't buy any. You get to decide to take care of yourself!!

There is still a lot of support for you if you want it! Like some of the following options.....