For many people, trying to drink less alcohol starts with a simple goal—maybe it’s for health reasons, or to set a better example for your kids. But what happens when that “simple” goal turns into an exhausting cycle of tracking, resisting, and ultimately giving in? That’s exactly where Sarah found herself. She wasn’t planning to stop drinking altogether—just trying to find a little balance. What she discovered instead completely changed her life.
I Thought I Just Needed a Few Alcohol-Free Days
I grew up with the best parents anyone could ask for. We had a happy home, but when I was growing up and especially during my teenage years, alcohol was everywhere. It wasn’t something you questioned—it was just part of life. I carry a few hard memories from that.
As a teenager, I genuinely enjoyed drinking. It was fun and social. But even early on, I noticed the hangovers were brutal. I’d spend the entire next day vomiting, nursing a pounding headache, and swearing I’d never do that again.
Fast forward to adulthood—I was still drinking regularly, although I tried to rein it in. I’d manage to moderate for a while, but every so often, I’d go overboard and regret it deeply. One of the worst moments came after a work event—I got sick on the way home, vomit in my hair, kids crying when they saw me. That memory stayed with me.
The Cycle of Trying and Failing to Cut Back
I didn’t want to give up alcohol. I just wanted a break. I told myself three alcohol-free days a week would be enough. I tracked it in a diary. Then I downloaded an app. Sometimes I managed two days off, but three? Rarely.
I didn’t feel empowered—I felt like I was constantly negotiating with myself. I was trying to drink less alcohol, but it felt like I was losing a battle every single week. The guilt was there. The frustration. I just wanted to feel good without feeling like I was missing out.
How One Book Changed Everything
Then, I stumbled across a Facebook post about This Naked Mind. I ordered the audiobook right away. It took weeks to arrive, but when it finally did—I listened to it in three days. I wasn’t expecting it to hit me the way it did.
My goal was still moderation—just trying to drink less alcohol and enjoy those dry days. But something shifted. After finishing the book, I had a glass of wine and… it didn’t feel good. The next day, I skipped drinking altogether. Friday night came—I didn’t drink. That was unheard of for me.
I tried a couple of glasses that weekend and again—it just didn’t feel right. That was the last time I drank. I haven’t had or wanted a drink since. That was over 18 months ago.
🎉 Ready to Take a Break That Actually Feels Good?
If you’re like I was—just trying to drink less alcohol without the guilt, the rules, and the pressure—I can’t recommend The Alcohol Experiment enough. It’s a completely free 30-day guided break from booze with daily videos, journal prompts, and an amazing support community.
Nearly 500,000 people have already used it to redefine their relationship with alcohol—and you could be next.
👉 Join The Alcohol Experiment today!
Life After Alcohol Is So Much Better Than I Imagined
Today, I can honestly say everything has changed. My energy is up. I’m sleeping better. My clothes fit better because my stomach isn’t constantly bloated. I lost those extra few kilos I was chasing. My endometriosis pain has reduced significantly. I play music—harmonica, to be exact—and it feels amazing to really feel the music.
But the biggest change? I’m present. For my kids. For myself. For life.
I’m not spending money on alcohol. I’m not wasting weekends on hangovers. I’ve joined a swim squad. I wake up with purpose. I’ve faced emotions I used to numb with wine. And I’ve realized I actually like who I am now.
Looking Back, I Wish I Had Known This Sooner
If I could go back and talk to my old self, I’d say: “One day you’ll discover what it’s like to be alcohol free, and believe it or not, you will love it! This journey you’re on with alcohol is ok, try not to feel shame or worry, because it will be ok. You don’t have to do this anymore, the time will come that you make the decision to stop. You won’t miss it. Life will be better without drinking alcohol.” Back then, I thought I was stuck. I thought the cycle of trying to drink less alcohol would go on forever.
But it doesn’t have to. You don’t have to feel ashamed. You don’t have to keep struggling. You don’t have to miss out. In fact, you’ll be gaining so much more.
Share Your Story
Were you just trying to drink less alcohol but found freedom through our books, the app, the podcasts, or another program at This Naked Mind? We want you to share your story here and inspire others on their journey!
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