Sunday 17 May 2015

Looking back...Moving Forwards

This week saw my new book published: 'The Secret to Being Fashionably Sober and Fabulous' which depicts the ups and downs of the (cliched) sober journey in the medium term.

Inevitably it has made me take stock and look back. It is helpful at any stage of sobriety to change your focus, look away from the difficulties that lie ahead and instead examine how far you've come, how much you've achieved, and how much you've changed.

For me this is a paradox of being so much yet so little.
So much has changed, yet so little changed.

As I failed in every way to moderate my drinking I spoke to a healthcare professional in an informal phone call. I was expecting sympathy and agreement about how it was just too hard and despite really trying, I could not go without even a little wine. I remember wailing down the phone 'But I don't know how to stop,'

To which he replied 'Just stop'.

A single, simple, change bringing unbelievable changes one hundred fold.

10 comments :

  1. There is only way out for those who cannot moderate, like me - to stop. It is very difficult, and I failed many times. But moderation is not for everyone.

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  2. I really have never come across anyone with a drinking problem that COULD moderate. I suppose it happens, but not in my world. Can't wait to read your new book Rachel!

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    1. Me neither, but I really wanted to moderate for so long, that's why I tried to do so for so long!

      Hope you enjoy the book. Please consider posting a review on Amazon if so! Thanks. Rx

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  3. I really have never come across anyone with a drinking problem that COULD moderate. I suppose it happens, but not in my world. Can't wait to read your new book Rachel!

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  4. Way to go on your new book!
    I find abstaining easier than trying to moderate in a number of areas of my life.
    Might have to do it with some on-line games.
    Easier to just delete off the phone.
    x
    Wendy

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  5. I am all or nothing. I smoked and then decided to 'just stop' and now I drank (up to 5 bottles a week) and 'just stopped.' I am also clean eating which gives added momentum. If you eat clean and exercise you cannot drink. Simple. I am 'Mrs weak willed' and if I can do it anyone can. x

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    1. I would say the same about myself! We each underestimate our own inherent abilities. we need to have more self belief! We must be fabulous if we managed to hold it all together with a hangover too! Rx

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  6. You have inspired me to document my own journey. I read your first book in a night and could relate to it all. Thank you. I can't wait to go through your archives! I have just started my journey www.soberwithstyle.com xxx

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    1. HI Poppy
      Thank you, your comments mean a lot.

      Writing is a great thing to do; when I stopped drinking I felt as if everything came alive again inside my head and needed an out- the blog got it!

      I’ll check out your blog and follow with interest.

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Go on, spill.

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