As someone who gave up alcohol, I am sharing my experience, not recommending

I just came across a story on Medium about different types of drinkers, written in a typical shaming tone, and it motivated me to write this post.

When I talk about sobriety, I like to give a bit of context. I was never addicted, but I did drink wine most nights for twenty years. I never drank hard liquor. I rarely got drunk. I usually had two or three glasses of wine each time. Often, I’d start with a beer before switching to wine.

I had a habit, an indulgence but alcohol was never my enemy. In recent years I got into exceptional shape, thanks to my running (multiple sub 2.50 marathons) so my evening drinks didn’t seem to impair my health. And I wouldn't say alcohol damaged my mental health.

I mention this because I never write stories demonizing alcohol, especially when it comes to my past habits.

Do I feel better now, six months since I had my last beer?

Absolutely. But it’s hard to pinpoint the exact improvement.

Physically nothing has changed. I ran every day when I drank, I run every day now.

Mentally? Well, it depends on what you mean by mentally. This story I wrote a couple of months ago best captures the benefits of sobriety as I experienced. Basically, I find joy and gratitude in stabilizing my identity. In this intense and uncertain world, we all need something that provides stability and purpose. Whether it’s family…