I’m a seasoned professional woman enjoying my alcohol free days. I was a single Mum when I embarked on a bluechip IT career which spanned 25 years. I certainly had some exploits in that alcohol fuelled, work hard, play hard environment. But I ploughed on, saying “It’s not why they remember you that matters, as long as they remember you.” On the outside things seemed fine. I juggled lots of balls and, although some were concerned about my drinking exploits, it was not out the ordinary and I had no compelling reason to moderate. I still got the jobs done and was successful in my career. I was often exhausted; the boost of alcohol was part of how I took care of my family and kept fit, even taking part in a few half marathons.

Drinking gave a little time out. Wine was a way to face a social occasion, lift my energy or to wind down. Over time, as alcohol became a prop, I lost the ability to feel my emotions. I had so much going for me, yet life became a cycle of shorter ups and longer downs with frequent crippling anxiety. Unsuccessful attempts to cut down alcohol over 20 years left me demoralized. I knew that my late father’s struggles with alcohol, medication and eventually dementia meant I should take extra care.

In 2023 my work world was turned upside by a takeover; my “redundant” IT position was eliminated. This was the jolt I needed to step away from bingeing alcohol. I really wanted to find a better way, fearing that I could waste the rest of my years.

“We've got to live, no matter how many skies have fallen.”

DH Lawrence.

I started a year long This Naked Mind program, where there was no pressure. Initially a time of self observation, to “stop trying to stop” while raising awareness of excess alcohol impact on body and mind. The TNM coaches gave space to investigate the thoughts underlying drinking. To my surprise, I unravelled the confusion and shame surrounding my binge drinking and although there are no magic solutions,over time the role of alcohol lessened in my life. No more waking up on the sofa, TV blasting and bottle on floor at 3am! The feeling of waking up feeling refreshed, with no gaps in memory and ready for the day is always welcome.

As time passed I lost my anxiety. I rediscovered my creative side and to the amusement of recipients hand made all my Christmas presents. I am now consider what I truly want and live from the inside, less concerned about external life.

My loved ones drink a lot less; it feels a good change to see my success ripple out to others.

My belief that I wouldn’t be able to do all the things if I stopped drinking held me back for years.
I can do all the things I choose. You can too. In fact, you will find time opens up, giving more than you can imagine!